Rip Van Winkle lived in a small American town in the mountains. He enjoyed talking to people but disliked working and helping his angry wife. One day after an argument with his wife, Rip went into the mountains with his dog where he met strange people and started drinking. When he woke up the next morning, 20 years had passed - his family and town had changed greatly. The story examines how Rip's choice to drink and escape his responsibilities impacted his life and relationships.