L.A. Confidential

In the early 1950s, LAPD Sergeant Edmund 'Ed' Exley is determined to uphold his father's legacy as a celebrated detective. His father's unsolved murder by an assailant named 'Rollo Tomasi' becomes both a burden and motivation for Exley.

Exley testifies against fellow officers involved in the controversial 'Bloody Christmas' incident, aiming to fast-track his promotion to Detective Lieutenant. This decision isolates him within the precinct, drawing ire from Captain Dudley Smith.

Plainclothes Officer Wendell 'Bud' White takes a firm stance against those who harm women, showing disdain for Exley due to the fallout from Exley's testimony that got his partner dismissed. White's aggressive demeanor stands in stark contrast to Exley's lawful approach.

Crime boss Mickey Cohen, currently incarcerated, leaves a vacuum in the city's underworld. Captain Smith exploits White's methods to curb potential threats from those vying to take control in Cohen's absence.

During his investigation, White meets Lynn Bracken, an alluring high-class escort who strikingly resembles actress Veronica Lake. Their connection becomes personal, intertwining their fates amidst the backdrop of police corruption and crime.

While probing an armed robbery and murders at the Nite Owl coffee shop, Exley apprehends three suspects. His relentless interrogation tactics yield coerced confessions, though the deeper truths of the murders remain obscured.

In a harrowing confrontation, White rescues a white girl from the robbery suspects, tapping into the violent methods he is known for. This act creates friction with Exley, who believes in upholding ethical standards despite the chaos around them.

As White grows closer to Lynn, they discover connections to another victim, Susan Lefferts. Their investigation reveals a grim tapestry of intertwined lives affected by the crimes happening in the city.

White stumbles upon the body of Leland 'Buzz' Meeks, further unraveling the layers of deceit that encompass drug trafficking. This discovery reveals the dire consequences of the web woven by corruption within the police force.

Tabloid publisher Sid Hudgens orchestrates a scandal involving District Attorney Ellis Loew, which sets off a chain of events leading to murder. This scandal exacerbates the already deep-rooted corruption within the LAPD.

After grappling with guilt over the unfolding events, Sergeant Jack Vincennes allies with Exley to expose the corruption led by Captain Smith. Their partnership brings them closer to uncovering the true depths of the moral decay surrounding them.

The climax leads to a violent confrontation where Exley and Vincennes confront Smith about his corruption. This moment serves as a turning point in their quest for justice, but it comes with heavy moral implications.

In the aftermath, Exley exposes the extensive corruption within the LAPD, seeking to protect the department's image while grappling with the ethical consequences of his actions. He receives accolades for his bravery and sense of duty.

As the dust settles from the chaos, Exley witnesses White and Lynn leave for a fresh start together. This bittersweet moment reflects on the personal cost of justice in a city steeped in darkness and corruption.

Left alone in the aftermath, Exley ponders the true cost of justice. His journey culminates in a moment of deep reflection on the moral challenges faced in preserving law and order in a city rife with corruption.