The film follows multiple interconnected storylines over the course of two days in the San Fernando Valley, where various characters’ lives intersect in unexpected ways.
In one storyline, we meet Lee Woods (played by James Spader), a cold and ruthless hitman hired to kill a man named Teddy Peppers. However, Lee’s plans are complicated when his partner, Dosmo Pizzo (played by Danny Aiello), botches the job and ends up killing the wrong person.
Meanwhile, Becky Foxx (played by Teri Hatcher), an aspiring Olympic skier, is embroiled in a love triangle with her abusive ex-husband, Roy Foxx (played by Peter Horton), and his new girlfriend, Susan Parish (played by Charlize Theron). The tension between the three escalates as they become entangled in Lee and Dosmo’s criminal activities.
Detectives Alvin Strayer (played by Jeff Daniels) and Wes Taylor (played by Eric Stoltz) are assigned to investigate the murders linked to Lee and Dosmo. As they delve deeper into the case, they uncover a web of deceit and betrayal that implicates several of the other characters in the film.
In the climax of the film, the various storylines converge in a violent and chaotic showdown at Lee’s hideout. Lee and Dosmo face off against Strayer and Taylor, while Becky and Susan team up to take down Roy. In the ensuing chaos, several characters are killed, and the survivors are left to deal with the aftermath of the violence.
In the end, the dust settles, and the remaining characters are left to pick up the pieces of their shattered lives. Some find redemption, while others face the consequences of their actions. The film ends on a note of ambiguity, leaving the fates of the characters uncertain.
“2 Days in the Valley” is praised for its stylish direction, sharp dialogue, and ensemble cast. It offers a darkly comedic take on the crime genre, blending elements of suspense, humor, and drama to create an engaging and unpredictable narrative.