Alpha Dog

In 1999, Johnny Truelove operates as a young drug dealer in the San Gabriel Valley. He relies heavily on his father, Sonny, for marijuana supplies, showcasing the entangled nature of his personal and professional life.

Johnny surrounds himself with a close-knit crew consisting of his steadfast friend Frankie, the enforcer Tiko, indebted Elvis, and Jake, a local Neo-Nazi. Together, they navigate the complexities of their illicit enterprise, each bringing their own struggles into the mix.

Tensions rise when Jake's attempts to repay his debts lead to him being fired from his telemarketing job after Johnny exposes his drug use. This incident marks a pivotal moment that escalates the conflict between Jake and Johnny.

In a retaliatory act, Jake vandalizes Johnny's home following his dismissal from work. This escalation of hostilities adds more fuel to the already tense situation between the two parties.

In a misguided attempt to confront Jake, Johnny and his crew kidnap Jake's younger half-brother, Zack. Their plan is to use Zack as leverage to pressure Jake for repayment of his debts, showcasing the drastic measures they are willing to take.

While being kept at Frankie's father's house, Zack forms an unexpected bond with Frankie. Despite their circumstances, this friendship provides Zack a brief escape from his troubled family life.

During his stay, Zack meets Frankie's friends, including Keith and Julie. Their interactions offer hints of normalcy in an otherwise chaotic environment, leaving Zack feeling connected to others.

Amid escalating threats from Jake, Johnny rethinks his plan and chillingly offers to cancel Elvis's debt in exchange for Zack's elimination. This decision marks a turning point that jeopardizes Zack's life dramatically.

Elvis, accompanied by Keith, takes Zack on a hike into the mountains, where Zack's fate begins to reveal itself. The excursion grows more ominous as Zack senses the looming danger surrounding him.

As the gravity of his situation sinks in, Zack pleads for his life, breaking down under the emotional weight. This moment encapsulates the desperation and betrayal unfolding among those who were once friends.

Despite Zack's pleas, Elvis follows through with Johnny's horrifying command, leading to a tragic outcome. The horrifying reality of betrayal becomes evident as their choices culminate in a dark finale.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, Susan confronts Frankie about the gang's actions, leading her to alert the police. This confrontation triggers a sequence of events that unravel the gang's plans and forces them to face the consequences.

Johnny flees to Albuquerque to escape the fallout from their actions. However, he is ultimately apprehended in Paraguay in 2005, highlighting the inescapable nature of his choices.

The surviving members deal with the legal repercussions of their actions, with Frankie receiving a life sentence. Each character is left grappling with the weight of their decisions and the impact on their lives.

After years on the run, Johnny is extradited back to California where he awaits trial. The looming threat of the death penalty serves as a harsh reminder of the consequences of their actions throughout this dark journey.