As the sun sets over the streets of the Bronx, young Calogero Anello, a 9-year-old Italian-American boy, finds himself caught in the midst of a treacherous struggle between two worlds. His father, Salvatore "Sonny" Anello, is a hardworking bus driver who values education and a life free from crime. In contrast, the neighborhood's dominant force, Sonny's childhood friend and notorious mobster, Carmine Italiano, represents the allure of power, money, and respect on the streets. As Calogero navigates his way through adolescence, he is drawn to the charismatic and brutal world of Carmine, who takes a special interest in the young boy. Despite his father's warnings, Calogero becomes increasingly fascinated with the code of honor and loyalty that governs Carmine's crew. The older man sees potential in the youth and begins mentoring him, teaching him how to defend himself and introducing him to the harsh realities of the criminal underworld. Meanwhile, Calogero's own identity is shaped by his relationships with these two powerful men. His father's values and expectations are at odds with Carmine's rough-around-the-edges wisdom, leaving the young boy torn between two vastly different worlds. As he becomes more deeply embroiled in Carmine's world, Calogero must confront the harsh consequences of his choices and the danger that lurks around every corner. Throughout the film, a poignant exploration of identity, loyalty, and family unfolds as Calogero grapples with the complexities of growing up amidst the turmoil of 1960s New York City. The narrative is marked by a sense of urgency and danger, as the protagonist must balance his loyalty to both men against the backdrop of racial tensions, gang rivalries, and social upheaval. As the story hurtles toward its climax, Calogero is forced to make difficult decisions about where he stands and what kind of man he wants to become.