A Most Violent Year

Set in early 1981 New York City, Abel Morales, portrayed by Oscar Isaac, embarks on his venture as the owner of Standard Oil. His determination to build a successful heating oil business is challenged by the violent climate of the city, setting the stage for his tumultuous journey.

Abel's business quickly faces adversity when a series of truck hijackings occur, leading to substantial financial losses for Standard Oil. This troubling trend marks the beginning of escalating violence that threatens the very foundation of his company.

During a hijacking, one of his drivers, Julian, suffers a brutal assault, highlighting the dangers facing Abel's employees. This incident leaves Abel wracked with concern for his team and prompts a deeper reflection on how to ensure their safety.

Anna Morales, Abel's wife, grows increasingly frustrated with the violence targeting their business and pushes Abel to retaliate against their attackers. However, Abel, committed to a more honorable approach, resists her advice, believing that violence is not the solution.

As the business struggles, Assistant District Attorney Lawrence begins scrutinizing the heating oil industry for potential misconduct, adding pressure on Abel. He faces allegations of price fixing and tax evasion that could further complicate his efforts.

Abel finds an opportunity to grow his business through a vital deal with a group of Jewish Chassidim, led by Josef Mendellsohn. This strategic acquisition of a fuel oil terminal on the East River is crucial for establishing direct imports, but requires a risky 40% down payment.

Abel's family life becomes intertwined with the violence when an attempted burglary occurs at their home. The incident takes a darker turn when his daughter discovers a loaded handgun, prompting fears that they are being targeted by their competitors.

In an effort to uncover the truth behind the assaults on his business, Abel confronts several competitors. Despite his aggressive inquisition, each competitor denies involvement in the harassment, leaving Abel feeling isolated in his struggle.

After recovering from his injuries, Julian finds himself involved in yet another dangerous situation on the Queensboro Bridge. This encounter culminates in a daylight shootout, further complicating Abel’s already precarious situation.

With only a limited period left to secure $1.5 million for the terminal closure, Abel scrambles to gather funds. He borrows money from competitors and against his own property, showing his relentless drive to keep his business afloat.

Abel intercepts a distress call about a hijacking attempt on one of his trucks. Quickly responding to the situation, he finds himself in a perilous confrontation that exposes the involvement of a competitor in the thefts plaguing his business.

As the pressure mounts, Abel reluctantly turns to Peter Forente for financial assistance, aware of the associated risks. Forente's reluctance to lend money highlights the precarious connections Abel must navigate in his quest for business survival.

In a shocking revelation, Abel learns that Anna has been secretly saving money in a hidden account away from his notice. This unexpected discovery provides him with a lifeline, and he manages to finalize the deal for the terminal.

The narrative turns heart-wrenching as Julian, feeling abandoned by Abel, confronts him brandishing a gun. In an act of despair, Julian takes his own life, leaving both Abel and Anna devastated and facing the aftermath of his actions.

With law enforcement investigating the tragic events, Abel expresses his frustrations over the ongoing inquiries into his business practices. Despite Assistant District Attorney Lawrence’s suggestion for a potential alliance, Abel stands firm in his convictions about always doing what is right.