Eli Wurman is an aging, burnt-out Jewish publicist whose best days are behind him, and he wishes to retire from his line of work, but all he knows is how to hustle, cajole, threaten and persuade.

One night, Eli's last remaining "big client" Cary Launer—an actor considering a campaign for political office—entreats Eli to take care of his latest publicity mess, a dangerous liaison with Jilli Hopper, a hard-shelled, quick-tongued television actress with a soft center and a taste for illegal drugs.

Jilli takes Eli to a drug and sex den that is a place to party for the rich and famous, where she claims to be looking for a toy.

Eli finally realizes that he is involved in something politically dangerous, and powerful forces are at play to keep his mouth shut.

As he strives to bring together the people who he knows—members of the Black and Jewish communities, film stars and media—for the grand fundraiser, Eli's life is in grave danger.

[4] Empire gave a largely positive review, awarding four stars out of five, noting, "May be a slow-burn, but despite its lack of success elsewhere, it's still more than worthy of its long-delayed cinema release.

Discerning audiences willing to invest in the characters will soon warm to the downbeat story and Al Pacino's subdued performance – especially the scenes he shares with Basinger.

[6] Time Out's review observed, "With its uncertainties of tone, this is a mess, full of misplaced performances (not least Basinger as Eli's supportive sister-in-law), misfires and moral inconsistencies.