 After spending nearly 15 years in solitary confinement, Otis is released back into society. Under the supervision of Los Angeles County Probation Officer, John Anderson, he moves into a transitional facility, run by Al, where his re-assimilation can be monitored. Otis attempts to start a new life but the past is too enticing. He heads to a local Taxi Dancer club where he meets Penny, a dancer who seems to care about him. This being so unfamiliar to Otis, he stays with her far beyond his curfew. Fearing the consequences of violating his parole, he decides not to return at all.   During breakfast, Otis is approached by Hamid, a Persian Rug salesman. He offers Otis a job helping with his deliveries. Otis agrees and Hamid takes him to an isolated desert community to revisit some previous customers. Among these, the compound of the evangelist broadcaster, Reverend Roy with his congregation of vestal vixens, and the exotic artist Palma who decides Otis deserves a place in a mythological mural she is painting.   As officer Anderson learns of Otis  disappearance, he decides that he must lead the search to find the missing parolee. During the investigation, bits of Otis  troubled and violent past are revealed, including his forced involvement in prison gladiator matches. When they learn of Penny, they find she is missing as well. Officer Anderson fears the worst.   Following the GPS on Otis  leg bracelet, Officer Anderson heads to the desert. He meets up with the local Sheriff and they relentlessly track Otis and Hamid throughout their odyssey, culminating in a final confrontation between Otis, the law and destiny.