Clay Pigeons is a 1998 crime-comedy film directed by David Dobkin and starring Joaquin Phoenix, Vince Vaughn, and Janeane Garofalo. The film follows Clay (Phoenix), a bored and unfulfilled young man living in a small Montana town. Clay has been having an affair with Earl's wife, Amanda, and when Earl discovers the truth, he tragically kills himself in front of Clay.
Feeling guilty and disturbed by the events, Clay begins to withdraw from Amanda's advances, which leads her to become increasingly desperate for his attention. In the midst of this turmoil, Clay meets Lester Long (Vaughn), a serial killer on the run who has come to town seeking refuge.
Initially, Clay is horrified by Lester's actions, but they soon bond over their shared sense of existential dissatisfaction. As their friendship deepens, Clay becomes increasingly entangled in Lester's violent world and finds himself drawn into a terrifying game of cat-and-mouse.
Eventually, Amanda becomes Lester's latest victim, and Clay finds himself at the center of a police investigation. Desperate to clear his name and break free from the cycle of violence that has consumed his life, Clay must confront the demons that haunt him and face the consequences of his actions.
Clay Pigeons is an intense and darkly funny examination of toxic masculinity, small-town ennui, and the dangerous allure of violence. With standout performances from Phoenix and Vaughn, as well as sharp writing and stylish direction, it is a compelling and unforgettable film that lingers long after the credits roll.