Carlito's Way: Rise to Power

The story begins in the 1960s, focusing on three inmates: Earl, Rocco, and Carlito. While serving their time, they cleverly devise plans to maintain their criminal empire from behind bars, setting the stage for their future operations.

After serving their sentences, Earl, Rocco, and Carlito regain their freedom and immediately set their sights on dominating the drug trade in Harlem. They are aware that the streets are rife with tension from rival factions, including the Italian Bottolota crime family.

Rocco introduces the trio to Artie Bottolota, who is initially reluctant to engage with black and Puerto Rican associates. However, after some negotiations, they reach an agreement to collaborate on heroin distribution, marking a new chapter in their criminal activities.

Earl's troubled younger brother, Reggie, becomes part of their crew, complicating their operations. His presence adds potential turmoil, demonstrating how familial bonds intertwine with their illicit activities.

Tension escalates when Artie Jr. attempts to assault Reggie with a straight razor. Carlito is held back, but Rocco insists that they need to take charge of the situation before it spirals further out of control.

Carlito becomes interested in a woman named Leticia, deepening the narrative's personal stakes. The relationship brings Carlito into contact with her brother, Sigfredo, who is aware of Carlito's dangerous lifestyle, leading to dramatic confrontations.

As Carlito attempts to win the trust of Leticia's family, Sigfredo grows increasingly uneasy. This tension highlights the intertwining of love and crime, as personal relationships are strained by Carlito's violent past.

Carlito expels Reggie from their group, causing Reggie to seek revenge. In a reckless act, he abducts Artie Jr., pushing the already fraught situation into dangerous territory as the gang struggles with loyalty and betrayal.

In a dramatic turn of events, law enforcement intervenes and rescues Artie Jr. from Reggie's grasp. This incident not only highlights the precarious nature of their criminal operations but also plants seeds of discord between the groups involved.

In retaliation for the kidnapping, the Bottolota Family blames Carlito, Rocco, and Earl, placing a hit on them. This escalates the conflict, putting the trio's lives on the line and forcing them into a fight for survival.

The assassin, Nacho Reyes, embarks on a mission to eliminate Carlito and his crew. Along with Carlito's ally Colorado, they begin searching for Reggie, showcasing the lengths to which rival factions will go in the drug trade.

The situation culminates when Carlito and Nacho close in on Reggie at an apartment where Earl is also present. A shootout ensues, resulting in Reggie’s tragic death and shifting the balance of power within their circles.

In a desperate bid for power, Carlito and Earl start bribing corrupt officials in Harlem. This maneuver leads to unexpected consequences, culminating in a bloody raid on the Bottolota Family, underscoring the risks of their criminal lifestyle.

After the chaos, Carlito, Rocco, and Earl plan an escape to the islands. This trip serves as both a retreat and a celebration of Earl's wedding, providing a temporary respite from their dangerous life.

As Earl embraces his retirement, Carlito reflects on his life choices and reconnects with Leticia. He considers stepping back from the tumultuous drug trade, pondering the possibility of a future unburdened by violence.