Prince of the City

Prince of the City

Year: 1981

Runtime: 167 min

Language: English

Director: Sidney Lumet

DramaCrime

In this gripping drama, Prince Amara's life of privilege turns to ashes when he's framed for murder by his own kin. Banished from Malaysia, the prince must assemble an unlikely alliance with a ruthless gangster and deadly bodyguard to reclaim his birthright and exact revenge on those who wronged him.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Prince of the City (1981)
Trace every key event in Prince of the City (1981) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.
1

Introduction to Detective Danny Ciello

Detective Danny Ciello, played by Treat Williams, operates in the gritty landscape of New York City. As part of the Special Investigative Unit (SIU), he is caught within a corrupt system that thrives on deception and illegal activity.

New York City
2

Corruption Unveiled

The SIU is known as the 'Princes of the City,' flaunting their authority while engaging in activities such as skimming money from criminal organizations. Their corruption reveals the fragility of justice within the city, pushing Ciello into a moral quandary.

New York City
3

A Troubled Past

Haunted by his past, Ciello deals with the memories of his drug-addicted brother and a cousin involved in organized crime. These personal demons rear their heads, further complicating his actions within the SIU.

New York City
4

A Catalytic Encounter

Ciello's moral compass begins to falter after a harrowing encounter with a junkie. This moment starkly illustrates the moral decay surrounding him and catalyzes his decline into the corruption that he once sought to combat.

New York City
5

Feds Closing In

As federal prosecutors and internal affairs officials begin their investigations, the pressure mounts on Ciello. Faced with mounting legal peril, he contemplates desperate measures to protect himself and his family.

New York City
6

Going Undercover

In a last-ditch effort for immunity, Ciello agrees to wear a wire and goes undercover to expose the rampant corruption within the police force. This decision marks a significant turn in his journey, straddling the line between right and wrong.

Various Locations
7

Haunted by Loss

The tragic suicide of Ciello's partner during an interrogation serves as a grim reminder of the consequences of their choices. This loss weighs heavily on Ciello's conscience as he navigates the treacherous waters of betrayal.

New York City
8

Cousin's Death

The death of Ciello's cousin, a victim of the dangerous game of organized crime, further escalates the stakes in his life. This personal tragedy acts as a constant reminder of the repercussions tied to the world he inhabits.

New York City
9

Betrayals Begin

As the investigation intensifies, Ciello grapples with loyalty to his old teammates. Ultimately, he betrays them one by one as he navigates the complexities of his undercover role, causing irreversible strains on former friendships.

New York City
10

Tragic Self-Inflicted Wound

The psychological toll of Chiello's actions culminates in a former partner’s tragic self-inflicted gunshot wound. This event acts as a key turning point, highlighting the devastating impact of loyalty and betrayal within their circle.

New York City
11

Confrontation with the Chief Prosecutor

Confronting the chief prosecutor, Ciello faces the implications of his decisions. After reviewing the evidence, the prosecutor ultimately decides against bringing charges against him, granting him a glimmer of hope amidst chaos.

New York City
12

Second Chance

In a haunting yet hopeful conclusion, Ciello secures a second chance at redemption as he takes on an instructive role at the Police Academy. This new chapter symbolizes a commitment to change, guided by the lessons learned from his tumultuous journey.

Police Academy, New York City
13

Lessons on Corruption

Ciello’s experiences serve as a poignant reminder of the pervasive nature of corruption within law enforcement. His transformation into an instructor exemplifies the ongoing struggle for integrity and redemption in the face of adversity.

Police Academy, New York City

Last Updated: November 17, 2024 at 20:38

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