Bugsy

In New York City, organized crime boss Benjamin Siegel asserts his dominance by brutally killing a lesser associate for embezzlement. This public execution sends a clear message to all within the organization about the consequences of betrayal and solidifies Siegel's fearsome reputation.

Before leaving for Los Angeles, Siegel bids farewell to his wife Esta and their daughters. This departure marks a significant shift in his life as he embarks on new criminal ventures in California.

On his journey, Siegel encounters his friend Harry Greenberg, who is struggling financially and seeks help. Displeased with Greenberg's irresponsible behavior, Siegel lends him money but ultimately dismisses him to focus on his own ambitions.

Upon arriving in Los Angeles, Siegel reconnects with actor George Raft, who takes him to a film set. It is here that Siegel first lays eyes on Virginia Hill, an extra who appears indifferent to him, which only fuels his determination to win her over.

While driving through Beverly Hills, Raft mentions the home of opera singer Lawrence Tibbett, prompting Siegel to impulsively make a purchase offer. He successfully persuades Tibbett to sell his residence at an inflated price, showcasing Siegel's confidence and ambition.

Siegel meets with fellow gangster Jack Dragna to propose expanding their criminal activities. Although Dragna is initially resistant, the two men share a moment of camaraderie that leads to a reluctant agreement to collaborate.

Virginia later visits Siegel at his new home, and a passionate romance ignites between them. Their relationship quickly becomes tumultuous as Siegel's jealousy begins to manifest, especially concerning Virginia's past interactions with Mickey Cohen.

After hearing about a robbery attributed to Mickey Cohen, Siegel confronts him with aggressive intent. This encounter leads Siegel to hire Cohen for enforcement and collection, despite his growing frustrations with Virginia.

Siegel decides to name his ambitious hotel-casino project after Virginia, calling it The Flamingo. This decision symbolizes how he sees Virginia as the embodiment of his grand aspirations in Las Vegas.

As Siegel dives deeper into his plans, his extravagant spending spirals out of control, reflecting his escalating instability. This behavior puts immense pressure on both his business and his relationship with Virginia.

Greenberg makes a comeback, seeking protection from Siegel amidst his escalating turmoil. However, this reunion swiftly turns violent, culminating in betrayal and tragic consequences for both men.

The relationship between Siegel and Virginia reaches a breaking point due to jealousy and deception. Their love story, once lively, deteriorates into a bitter conflict that ultimately drives them apart.

The grand opening of The Flamingo arrives, but disaster strikes as a storm disrupts the festivities. This unforeseen catastrophe marks a significant downturn in Siegel's ambitions and the lavish lifestyle he sought to maintain.

In the aftermath of the failed opening and Virginia's departure, Siegel faces betrayal from those closest to him. He is violently slain in his own living room, a tragic end to a turbulent life within the criminal underworld he helped shape.

Despite his violent death, Siegel's ambitions live on as his investment in The Flamingo lays the groundwork for Las Vegas' transformation into an entertainment hub. His actions continue to influence the landscape of American nightlife for decades to come.