Gotti

The film begins by chronicling John Gotti's rise to power within the Gambino Crime Family, the most powerful crime syndicate in the United States. His charismatic personality and reckless ambitions quickly catapult him into a position of influence in New York City's organized crime scene.

Accompanying Gotti throughout his journey are his son John Jr. and devoted wife Victoria. Their relationships are complicated, especially as John Jr. struggles with his identity being the son of a notorious crime boss and the expectations that come with it.

In the early 1980s, John Jr. enlists in the U.S. Army but faces harsh treatment from fellow soldiers due to his infamous last name. The pressure of his family legacy proves too great, leading him to leave the army to join his father's criminal exploits.

The family's world is shattered when Gotti's younger son, Frankie, is killed in a hit-and-run accident. Displaying their ruthless nature, the Gotti family seeks swift retribution against the perpetrator just months later.

As Gotti cements his grip on power, he clashes with Paul, the head of the Gambino family. This conflict grows as Gotti publicly derides Paul's leadership, putting him and his close inner circle at risk from rival families.

With law enforcement ramping up their efforts, Gotti's closest ally, Angelo Ruggiero, becomes a target as wiretaps begin to unveil critical operations. This brewing storm highlights the cracks within Gotti’s empire.

On December 16, 1985, Gotti orchestrates the assassination of Paul in a bold move to secure his leadership. This act not only solidifies Gotti's grip on the Gambino family but also instigates a violent power struggle among rival factions.

By 1988, Gotti faces betrayal from within his ranks, most notably from Sammy Gravano, who turns informant against him. The FBI captures incriminating conversations, sealing Gotti's fate and leading to his ultimate downfall.

After the informant's testimony and recorded evidence of his crimes, Gotti receives a sentence of five life terms in prison. His aspirations and control over the Gambino family dissolve as he faces the consequences of his choices.

Following in his father's shadow, John Jr. also encounters legal troubles as he is accused of being part of the criminal syndicate. This reflects the inescapable reach of his family's legacy on his own life.

As Gotti faces his impending death, a heartfelt visit occurs between him and John Jr. During this visit, John Jr. conveys his desire to break free from the cycle of crime, seeking redemption away from his father's shadow.

After enduring a series of legal battles and serving nine years in prison, John Jr. finally emerges free in December 2009. This signifies a new beginning for him, marking an end to the turbulent era defined by crime and familial loyalty.

John Gotti's reign ultimately comes to a close with his death from cancer in 2002. Despite his notoriety and influence, he spends his final years imprisoned, a stark reminder of the toll of his criminal empire.

The film culminates by looking at the legacy of the Gotti family, highlighting the impacts of crime, betrayal, and the quest for redemption. It poses questions about loyalty, identity, and the enduring effects of one man's life choices on his family.