Hustle

Lieutenant Phil Gaines receives a call about a dead woman found on the beach, which sets the story in motion. He discusses the case with Nicole Britton, his girlfriend, and they plan a romantic trip to Rome before he leaves for work. The incident marks the beginning of the investigation.

Gaines and Sgt. Belgrave visit Marty Hollinger, Gloria's father, to identify the body. Marty is distraught and angry, punching Gaines and insisting they should have covered her up. The scene highlights the family's grief and suspicion surrounding her death.

Gaines witnesses his colleagues beating a confession out of an Albino man, leading him to order the detention's end and protest police brutality. This scene reveals the corrupt practices within the police force Gaines despises.

Gaines learns that Jerry Bellamy, a double murderer he had previously arrested, was paroled early. This development deepens the mystery and concern about potential danger, emphasizing Gaines's doubts about the justice system.

Gaines stands on his balcony reminiscing about Rome, while Nicole engages in phone sex with a client, revealing their strained relationship and her difficulty in her profession. This moment highlights their personal struggles.

Captain Santoro tells Gaines and Belgrave to close the case on Gloria's death, as tests point to suicide and no signs of rape. The case is dismissed, but doubts remain, hinting at potential unresolved issues.

Gaines finds a photo of Gloria with mob attorney Leo Sellers at Gloria's belongings. The discovery suggests a connection to the criminal underworld, prompting Gaines to investigate further.

Gaines interviews Herbie Dalitz, who confirms Gloria was procured for Leo Sellers and was involved in a pornographic film career. The investigation reveals Gloria's complex and troubled background.

Gaines questions Leo about Gloria’s death and her recent activities. Leo admits to partying with Gloria but claims she left his house alive, displaying a nonchalant attitude towards her situation.

Marty confronts Leo Sellers over Gloria and shoots him dead. Gaines and Belgrave find Marty slumped and injured in a chair, revealing a tragic climax rooted in grief and anger.

Gaines shoots Marty in the shoulder to protect him from being further implicated, then fabricates a story that Leo Sellers killed Marty in self-defense. This act demonstrates Gaines’s morally complex choices.

Gaines plans to marry Nicole in Sausalito but is murdered during a robbery at a liquor store. His death marks the tragic end of his pursuit of justice and personal happiness.

After Gaines’s death, Nicole and Sgt. Belgrave learn about his murder and leave the airport, with an airplane heading to Rome in the background, symbolizing lost dreams and unresolved stories.