The woman, Marjorie, is played by Farrah Fawcett. After the attempted rape, she is traumatized and fearful for her safety. She tries to move on with her life but the attacker, Joe, played by James Russo, finds her address in her purse and comes to her apartment.
Marjorie manages to subdue him with insect repellent and duct tape, then ties him up. She is filled with rage and wants to kill him but also struggles with the morality of taking a life.
As Joe begs for forgiveness, Marjorie interrogates him and tries to find out why he targeted her. She learns that Joe is a disturbed man with a history of violent behavior towards women.
Marjorie's roommate, Terry, played by Diana Scarwid, arrives home and is shocked to find the situation. Terry urges Marjorie to call the police, but Marjorie is hesitant. She feels that the police won't believe her without evidence and that Joe will come after her if he is released.
As the night wears on, tension builds between the three of them. Marjorie and Terry argue about what to do with Joe and Terry reveals to Joe that Marjorie is alone and vulnerable. Joe taunts Marjorie and threatens to kill her once he is released.
In the end, Marjorie decides to let Joe go. She feels that she cannot live with the burden of taking a life and trusts that Joe will not come after her. However, as Joe leaves, he turns back and attacks Marjorie. The two struggle and Marjorie ultimately kills Joe in self-defense.
The film raises important questions about the justice system and the morality of violence and revenge. Farrah Fawcett's performance is praised for its emotional depth and intensity. The film received mixed reviews upon its release in 1986 but has since gained a cult following.