Drifting through relationships, respected college professor Adam Gaines (Michael Douglas) continues to seek what he feels is lacking in life. When he's unexpectedly called to rural Missouri, he impulsively decides to stay for the summer, taking a job on the road crew of the local power company. This acclaimed drama marks one of the earliest big-screen appearance for Douglas, and features a talented supporting cast that includes Joe Don Baker, Louise Latham, Grayson Hall, and Lee Purcell.