By the Gun

Nick Tortano is deeply entrenched in the Boston underworld, striving to elevate his status within the mafia. He ardently wishes to become a *made man*, yet struggles with the daunting task of proving his loyalty and capabilities for a critical contract killing.

Sal Vitaglia, a once powerful figure in the crime organization, begins to see the potential in Nick as he contemplates restructuring his operations. He decides that Nick could be an essential soldier, prompting Sal to challenge him to demonstrate his loyalty.

Sal assigns Nick the difficult task of apologizing to Tony Matazano, a mobster he accidentally offended. This moment of contrition is crucial for Nick, as it sets the stage for his acceptance within the mafia ranks, yet he approaches it with reluctance and frustration.

Prior to delivering the apology, Nick vents his frustrations to George, his gritty Irish friend. Despite George's mockery, Nick resolves to confront the situation, showcasing both his commitment and inner turmoil as he prepares for a precarious negotiation.

Nick successfully delivers the apology to Tony, who grudgingly accepts it, albeit without respect. This act is a small victory for Nick, as the tense relationship with Tony begins to thaw, even though the underlying animosity remains palpable.

Amidst his entanglement in the mafia, Nick finds himself drawn to Ali, Tony's estranged daughter. Despite an initial rejection fueled by past misunderstandings, their mutual disdain for her father’s dubious dealings fosters a fragile romantic connection.

In a bid to prove himself, Nick collaborates with George on a daring heist targeting a local drug dealer. However, after their successful operation, Nick faces familial conflict when he attempts to share the spoils with his brother Vito, leading to disapproval from their father Vincent.

Nick finds himself in a morally compromising situation as he grapples with his loyalties to Sal and the obligations of the mafia. This culminates in a botched contract killing, prompting George to step in to rectify the situation, which propels Nick deeper into the criminal world.

Now recognized as a *made man*, Nick begins to assert his authority within the mafia. He enforces debt collections and confronts local business owners, illustrating his newfound power while also igniting waves of chaos in the community.

As tensions escalate, Tony faces difficulties managing an anonymous gambler with a staggering debt. He issues a harsh ultimatum to his subordinates, illustrating the ruthless nature of their business and setting the stage for violent consequences.

Joe, Tony's cunning second-in-command, grows suspicious of Nick and George's rapid rise to power. Following Sal's unspoken approval, Joe's investigation into Nick’s family leads to devastating consequences and a tragic confrontation with his own father.

Overwhelmed by grief and anger after losing his father, Nick confronts Sal about the unfolding chaos. However, Sal's chilling reminder of Nick's misplaced priorities and disillusionment leaves Nick questioning his place in the mafia.

Driven by despair following Ali's impending fate at the hands of Sal, Nick embarks on a vengeful journey against his former allies. Joined by George, he passionately seeks retribution, but his quest ultimately isolates him from all he once knew.

In a fateful confrontation, Nick faces Sal one last time, culminating in a tragic showdown. Sal's ruthless strike signifies the culmination of Nick’s reckless ambition, leaving him questioning his worthiness in the mafia hierarchy.

After Nick's tragic demise, Vito arrives at the scene to exact brutal revenge on Sal, showcasing the lasting impact of loyalty and blood ties within the crime family. As he vanishes into the night, the aftermath casts a long shadow over their violent world.