The Big Street

Gloria Lyons is crippled in a fall caused by Case Ables, and Little Pinks takes her in. He offers shelter and care in his apartment, becoming her caretaker. This marks the beginning of a deep, complicated bond between them.

Violette Shumberg marries Nicely Johnson and the couple relocates to Florida. Gloria orders Pinks to take her there to recuperate, and he wheels her toward Miami in her wheelchair.

In Miami, Gloria reunites with Decatur, a former lover. He loses interest once he discovers she is an invalid.

Gloria lashes out at Pinks, pushing him away. He leaves and finds work as a busboy in a club owned by Case Ables.

Pinks learns Gloria is ill and returns to her side. He resumes caring for her, determined to support her through her illness.

Gloria longs for one last night in a gown bedecked with jewels. Pinks overhears Mimi Venus being blackmailed by a thug, and, in disguise, retrieves the gems from the thief.

Pinks confronts Case and negotiates a deal: he will report the thief to the police if Case agrees to host a party with Gloria as the guest of honor.

On the night of the party, the police arrest Pinks because his Social Security card is found in Mimi's closet. The plan for Gloria's night out is jeopardized by the investigation.

Samuel, Mimi's husband, learns why Pinks broke in and takes pity on him, dropping the charges. The immediate legal threat dissolves as the truth comes to light.

Gloria realizes the sacrifices Pinks has made for her, and he lifts her in his arms so they can dance together. The moment seals their bond amid the chaos of the night.

Gloria tells Pinks she wants to see the ocean one last time, then dies. Her longing for the sea becomes the final, poignant moment of her life.

Undaunted by her death, Pinks carries Gloria up the stairs to fulfill her final request. He remains devoted to honoring her memory in the quiet, stubborn resolve of a busboy who loved a star.