Brooklyn in the summer of 1973: Woody Carmichael lives with his family in an area that is inhabited by both blacks and whites. He is the father of five children. Together with his wife Carolyn, he draws on four boys and a girl. The sons of the Carmichael are constant unrest, from their behavior Troy (Zelda Harris) - the daughter of Woody and Carolyn - draws its teachings. However, all children have to learn to grow up and deal with the often harsh reality. Her parents have to face many problems. These include their often eccentric neighbors and financial difficulties.
The latter had earlier Woody not because he was a respected jazz musician once. But one roars The twenties: In the pubs is raging the Jazz, in the streets, the Mafia and the theater industry aspiring young writers. Not so here: The poor playwright David Shayne wants a Broadway - UH! To raise money for his project, his manager applies the mob boss the gives him money, but it has its lover Olive Neal (Jennifer Tilly), the main role in the play. Good conditions for the piece to be a disaster, because Neal is anything but an actress. With their lack of talent makes them from the samples cruel shower experiences. But luckily there are the gangster Crees It proves to be a gifted writer and makes the piece to success.
