Starred Up

Eric, a troubled 19-year-old, is moved from a juvenile facility to a high-security adult prison due to his age and violent past. This transition marks the beginning of his harsh experience in a ruthless environment where survival is paramount.

Eric learns that his estranged father, Neville, is serving a life sentence in the same prison. Neville holds a significant position as a lieutenant for the controlling crime boss, intensifying Eric’s struggles with his identity and familial relationships.

Upon entering the prison, Eric's aggression surges as he starts attacking both guards and other inmates. This behavior illustrates his struggle to cope with the realities of prison life and the challenges he faces in managing his anger.

Oliver, a volunteer prison therapist, intervenes just before Eric faces severe punishment for his actions. Recognizing Eric's potential, Oliver encourages him to join a group therapy session with other violent offenders, aiming to help him understand and manage his rage.

During the group therapy sessions, tensions rise as the men confront their pasts and personal demons. Oliver adeptly manages the chaos that ensues, helping the individuals to channel their anger into constructive discussions.

As Eric deepens his engagement with the therapy group, he faces disapproval from his father. Neville criticizes Eric for making connections with other inmates, adding strain to their already fraught relationship.

Eric faces humiliation from a group of three inmates; however, one of his group mates intervenes to support him. This moment of solidarity amidst chaos showcases the bonds formed through shared struggles in therapy.

The relationship between Eric and Neville grows increasingly tumultuous, marked by hidden secrets and emotional confrontations. Eric discovers his father's romantic involvement with his cellmate, leading to feelings of repulsion and betrayal.

The prison crime boss, Dennis, recognizes Eric’s potential and begins to mentor him. This relationship, initially promising, quickly becomes a source of danger as Eric struggles between acceptance and rebellion.

Eric's rebellious nature leads him to lash out violently at Dennis, turning their relationship hostile. Dennis's response is to plot Eric's elimination, putting Eric in jeopardy within the already dangerous prison environment.

In a dramatic climax, Neville defies Dennis's orders, confronting the crime boss directly. Their brutal struggle not only highlights Neville's desperation to protect his son but also shifts the power dynamics within the prison.

As Neville is being transferred out of the prison, the guards allow for a brief and emotional reunion between him and Eric. This fleeting moment underscores the complexity of their relationship, shaped by trauma and shared experiences.