Richard E. Grant and Paul McGann star in this cult comedy written and directed by Bruce Robinson. In 1969, out-of-work actors Withnail (Grant) and 'I' (McGann) subsist on a diet of alcohol, drugs and cigarettes in their revolting Camden flat.

In order to escape the months of untouched washing-up, they decamp to the countryside, hoping to enjoy a stay at a cottage owned by Withnail's uncle Monty (Richard Griffiths). However, things do not go entirely to plan, as Withnail is particularly unsuited to country living. Their friendship is tested even further when Monty joins them and makes unwanted sexual advances toward I.