Reuben is a drinker and brawler who runs afoul of the law and lands a long prison term. He leaves behind Roberta (Kelly Lynch), his wife and mother of nine. Also part of the extended family is Beal (Patrick McGaw), who becomes Roberta's sometime lover and possesses the famous Bean short fuse. All this is observed by Earlene (Martha Plimpton), a neighbor under the thumb of a strict religious father. Her dad warns her against any contact, but, despite the Beans' crude ways, the young woman is drawn to them. Their earthiness, directness, and unity stand in sharp contrast to her oppressive family life.