A History of Violence

Billy Orser and Leland Jones, mob killers, embark on a violent spree, eliminating the staff of a motel without hesitation. Their cold-blooded nature is highlighted when Billy shoots a young girl who witnesses their gruesome crime, showcasing the depths of their depravity.

In stark contrast to the chaos of the mobsters, Tom Stall leads a peaceful life in Millbrook, Indiana, as a well-respected restaurant owner. He enjoys his happy family life with his wife, Edie, and their children, Jack and Sarah, creating a picture-perfect existence.

Jack faces bullying at school from peers Bobby and Buddy, putting a strain on his emotional well-being. Despite the pressure, he chooses peace over confrontation, demonstrating maturity and a desire to resolve conflicts without resorting to violence.

The family's idyllic life is upended when Billy and Leland attempt to rob Tom's restaurant. In a moment of bravery, Tom confronts the robbers, ultimately killing them in a fierce struggle, but not before sustaining an injury of his own.

Following the confrontation, Tom becomes an overnight celebrity as media coverage showcases his heroics. However, with fame comes unwanted attention, and Tom finds himself struggling under the weight of his newfound notoriety and the expectations that accompany it.

Carl Fogarty confronts Tom, alleging he is actually Joey Cusack, an infamous figure tied to the Irish Mob. Despite Tom's firm denials, Carl's relentless harassment creates a sense of dread and insecurity, unraveling Tom's peaceful life.

Local Sheriff Sam warns Tom and Edie about Carl and his connections to organized crime. The threat intensifies as Tom realizes that their lives are in danger, adding to the pressure that is already building within their household.

Amidst the chaos, Tom’s family begins to suffer. Edie and Sarah face a menacing encounter at a mall with Carl, while Jack struggles with his own identity. Their lives become increasingly intertwined with the dangers posed by Carl and his associates.

Jack's frustrations culminate in a violent altercation at school, revealing the psychological toll that the ongoing threats have on him. With a growing resolve, he makes a bold decision to confront Carl's henchmen after being kidnapped.

The climax of their ordeal arrives during a fierce showdown at the Stall residence, where Tom skillfully defends his family against Carl's men. In a pivotal moment, Jack bravely kills Fogarty, ultimately rescuing his father, showcasing his newfound courage.

In a heart-wrenching scene at the hospital, Edie confronts Tom about his past. Tom reveals his true self, admitting to his history of murder for profit and excitement, casting doubt on the identity he has tried to build as Tom Stall.

After his recovery, Sheriff Sam seeks the truth behind Tom's identity, leading to heightened tensions between Tom and Edie. Despite Edie's fierce defense of her husband, the unearthing of Tom's past poses a significant threat to their relationship.

Tom receives an alarming call from his brother Richie Cusack, pulling him back into the dangerous world of the Philadelphia mob. This unexpected reunion thrusts Tom back into the violent power struggles that he sought to escape.

Back in Philadelphia, Tom confronts the reality of betrayal and revenge within the mob. The atmosphere is fraught with tension as he navigates the dangerous waters of family loyalty and survival against criminal interests.

As the story winds down, Tom returns to a strained family setting filled with unspoken emotions. Sitting around the dinner table, Jack and Sarah make tentative connections with their father, suggesting a fragile path toward understanding despite the shadows of Tom's past.