Carlito's Way

In 1975, after serving five years of a 30-year prison sentence, Carlito Brigante is finally released due to a legal loophole manipulated by his lawyer, Dave Kleinfeld. This moment marks the beginning of Carlito's attempt to start anew, leaving behind his life of crime.

After his release, Carlito returns to his old neighborhood in Spanish Harlem, hoping to reconnect with the life he once had, but with a desire to leave crime behind. Sadly, he quickly finds himself drawn back into the dangerous world he sought to escape.

Carlito is persuaded by his cousin Guajiro to join in a drug deal at a local bar. The deal ends in a tragic betrayal, leading to Guajiro's death and forcing Carlito to fight for his own survival, taking the drug money to invest in a nightclub instead.

With his nightclub investment, Carlito dreams of saving $75,000 to retire in the Caribbean. This aspiration symbolizes his longing for peace and a life free of crime, showcasing his internal struggle against his past.

Carlito faces pressure from Benny Blanco, a young gangster from the Bronx, who seeks an alliance with him. Despite the tempting offer, Carlito is determined to steer clear of Benny and remain on the path of redemption.

Carlito rekindles his romance with Gail, a talented ballet dancer turned stripper, revealing his softer side. Together, they dream of a future away from crime, but Carlito's past continually threatens their happiness.

Carlito's old friend Lalin, now in a wheelchair after serving time, visits him. However, the meeting takes a turn for the worse when Lalin is caught wearing a wire, signaling to Carlito that law enforcement is closing in on him.

Dave Kleinfeld, having stolen a million dollars from his mob boss Tony T, gets in over his head and draws Carlito into his dangerous situation. This decision marks the beginning of a series of betrayals and chaotic events that further entangle Carlito in crime.

Under the cover of night, Carlito, Kleinfeld, and Tony T's son, Frankie, sail to execute an escape plan for Tony T. However, things spiral out of control as Kleinfeld murders both Tony T and Frankie, disposing of their bodies in the East River and sealing their fates.

While in police custody, Carlito learns of Kleinfeld's betrayal through a recorded conversation. As the pressure mounts, he refuses to turn against his former friend, highlighting his loyalty and moral code despite his criminal background.

Carlito visits Kleinfeld in the hospital after he suffers a near-fatal incident, only to find that Kleinfeld has sold him out. This revelation deepens Carlito's sense of betrayal and motivates him to take decisive action to protect himself.

With plans to escape to Miami with a pregnant Gail, Carlito prepares for a new life. However, his hope for a peaceful future clashes with the reality of facing Vinnie and the danger that lies ahead, propelling him back into a violent confrontation.

As Carlito attempts to retrieve money from his club, he is ambushed by Vinnie and his associates. The ensuing chase through the subway system culminates in a gunfight at Grand Central Terminal, where Carlito fights for his life.

Just as Carlito believes he has escaped danger, he is suddenly ambushed by Benny, who shoots him multiple times. In a shocking twist, Carlito's ally Pachanga reveals his allegiance to Benny, leading to his own death.

In his dying moments, Carlito hands Gail the money, urging her to escape and build a new life for their unborn child. As he is wheeled away, he envisions Gail dancing on a Caribbean beach, representing his final wish for her happiness.