Imperial Bedrooms

Twenty-five years after "Less Than Zero," we revisit Clay, the protagonist from Bret Easton Ellis's groundbreaking debut novel that explored the dark side of 80s Los Angeles youth culture. Now, in a world marked by disillusionment and middle age, Clay has become a successful screenwriter. Upon returning to Los Angeles to cast his new film, he finds himself reimmersed in a familiar yet troubling social circle. His former girlfriend, Blair, is married to Trent, whose lavish Beverly Hills parties are filled with fame and fortune, yet he remains a bisexual philanderer. Clay's childhood friend, Julian, is now a recovering addict, while their old dealer, Rip, has undergone drastic changes, appearing even more menacing than before. As Clay navigates this complex landscape, he encounters a beautiful actress eager for a role in his film, which forces him to confront his own demons and the darker aspects of his character. With his life spiraling out of control, Clay grapples with his tendency for betrayal and the haunting remnants of his past. This return to familiar faces reveals the stark realities of aging and the enduring impact of their shared history.