State of Grace

Terry Noonan, played by Sean Penn, arrives back in New York's Hell's Kitchen after being away for a decade. This return sets the stage for his involvement in the dangerous world of organized crime.

Upon his return, Terry reconnects with his childhood friend Jackie, played by Gary Oldman. Their friendship rekindles, but Terry soon discovers Jackie's deep ties to the Irish mob, complicating their relationship.

Terry reignites a romantic relationship with Kathleen, Jackie's sister, portrayed by Robin Wright. This deepens his connection to Jackie's world, creating a conflict between his feelings and his secret mission.

As Terry navigates his relationships, he grapples with his dual identity as an undercover cop. The weight of his deception and the looming threat of exposure create tension in his interactions with both Jackie and Kathleen.

Under intense pressure, Terry confides in Kathleen about his undercover role. However, when Frankie reveals Terry's hidden agenda, Kathleen cuts ties, feeling betrayed and exposed to danger.

In a drunken rage, Jackie confronts a rival Italian gang, leading to a violent altercation. He kills all three gang members, showcasing both his loyalty and the escalating tensions within the criminal underworld.

Frankie, Jackie's brother and mob leader, faces pressure from the Italian mafia to eliminate Jackie due to his reckless behavior. He cleverly avoids war by publicly appeasing the Italian boss, highlighting the precarious balance of power.

Jackie, under Frankie's orders, conveys Terry to retrieve $25,000 from the Italians. Unbeknownst to them, this is a setup that leads to devastating consequences as tensions boil over.

During the hostage payout, Terry witnesses a shocking betrayal as Frankie shoots Jackie. This brutal moment shatters Terry's understanding of loyalty as he grapples with the truth of his friends and foes.

After witnessing the murder of Jackie, Terry decides to abandon his undercover role. He lays his police badge at Jackie's funeral, a poignant act symbolizing his resignation from a life of deception.

During St. Patrick's Day celebrations, Frankie orders Terry's assassination, believing him to be a threat. The festive atmosphere contrasts sharply with the underlying violence and betrayal lurking in the shadows.

The climax unfolds in a bar where Terry confronts Frankie and his crew. A fierce gunfight erupts, ending with Terry killing Frankie, but not without suffering life-threatening injuries.

As the film closes, Terry is left gravely wounded. The audience is left to ponder his fate, questioning whether he will survive or succumb to his injuries, encapsulating the tragic nature of his choices.