Knights of the City

Troy, the leader of the Royals, recognizes that life on the mean streets leads nowhere and decides to steer the gang toward a legitimate goal: professional music. He aims to channel the gang's energy into rehearsal, discipline, and public performances rather than street hustling. This marks the Royals' deliberate bid to redefine their identity through art.

The Mechanics threaten the Royals' territory with drug dealing and extortion, while McGruder, a corrupt officer, looks the other way. A violent clash erupts, and the Royals end up jailed after authorities uncover the corruption, shifting the balance of power in their neighborhood.

During their jail stay, the Royals use the downtime to rehearse and refine their songs. The shared confinement strengthens their cohesion and deepens their commitment to music.

A drunken inmate, Mr. Delamo, is impressed by their potential and offers his help, claiming ownership of Twilight Records. He signals that he might lift the group out of street life if they prove themselves.

After their release from jail, the Royals visit Twilight Records but are rebuffed by Delamo's yuppie assistant and daughter, Brooke. They leave behind a recording of their music, which goes unnoticed at first.

Brooke listens to the Royals' cassette and decides to bring the band to her father's attention. She sees their potential but also recognizes their unpolished edge.

Delamo agrees to stage a talent contest for local performers, partly to boost neighborhood morale and showcase hidden talent. He conveys that the contest will also impress local politicians and stockholders, while contestants who get into trouble with the police will be disqualified.

The mayor's office officially backs the contest, framing it as a catalyst to galvanize peace and reduce street violence. The Royals focus more on music, Delamo's profile rises, and Troy and Brooke begin a romance.

The Mechanics escalate their covert bid to take over the Royals' neighborhood, and Delamo uses his influence to pressure Troy. To avoid risking disqualification, Troy resists retaliation and stays focused on the contest.

The Royals stay focused, perform on the contest stage, and win the competition, earning a recording contract as the grand prize. Their victory is celebrated, signaling a possible new life beyond street conflicts.

The Mechanics kill one of the Royals' girlfriends, shattering the celebratory mood. The Royals are stirred to react, reeling from the violent betrayal in their own neighborhood.

The Royals retaliate, engaging the Mechanics in a violent confrontation and ultimately vanquishing them. Their dignity is preserved, and their future looks brighter as a result.

With the rival threat defeated and a recording contract in hand, the Royals look ahead to a brighter life in their city. The leadership of Troy, Brooke's support, and the community's backing suggest a hopeful future built on music.