The Guard

Sergeant Gerry Boyle is introduced as a brash officer in the Garda Siochana in Connemara, Ireland. His crass demeanor is evident as he indulges in drugs and alcohol even while on duty, showcasing the complexity of his character.

Despite his rough exterior, Boyle shows a deep emotional side in his care for his terminally ill mother, Eileen. She resides in a nursing home, and Boyle grapples with the reality that she only has 6-8 weeks left to live.

On his first day of duty, Boyle is paired with rookie partner Aidan McBride. Their contrasting styles set the stage for a tumultuous partnership, as they dive into a murder investigation that leads them into dark territory.

Boyle and McBride start investigating a murder in their jurisdiction, discovering clues hinting at an occult serial killer. The victim remains unidentified, and a cryptic '5 1/2' written in blood deepens the mystery.

An anonymous tipster, Sheehy, connects a man named Billy Devaney to the murder. Billy boasts about being at a bar during the crime with over twenty witnesses to support his alibi, casting doubt on the investigation.

Boyle attends a briefing with Wendell Everett, an FBI agent sent to aid the Garda in tracking down Irish drug traffickers. The duo's differing approaches and Boyle's prejudice towards drug dealers create an immediate tension.

During the investigation, Boyle recognizes the murder victim, James McCormick, as potentially involved with drug operations. This revelation positions the murder in the larger context of the drug trafficking case the FBI is handling.

In a shocking turn of events, McBride is shot dead while trying to pull over Sheehy and his crew. His untimely death leaves Boyle grappling with loss and prompts a desperate search for answers.

Gabriela, McBride's wife, reports her husband's disappearance to Boyle. This sparks renewed urgency in Boyle to uncover the truth surrounding McBride's fate and the circumstances surrounding the murder investigation.

As Boyle and Everett continue their partnership, their contrasting investigative methods lead to clashes. Boyle's unorthodox tactics and Everett's scholarly approach highlight the challenges they face in solving the case.

Boyle begins to receive threatening messages from Sheehy, who attempts to undermine Boyle's credibility and integrity. The mounting pressures of the investigation force Boyle to confront both Sheehy and his own vulnerabilities.

In a critical moment, Boyle uncovers a cache of illegal weapons hidden by the IRA. This discovery adds another layer of complexity to the investigation and connects the dots between organized crime and drug trafficking.

Boyle realizes that the drug shipment's feed has shifted, leading him to a climactic confrontation with Sheehy and his crew at the docks. The tension culminates in a high-stakes clash between law enforcement and criminals.

In a gripping finale, Boyle engages in a fierce battle with Sheehy's crew. The encounter escalates dramatically, ultimately leading to an explosion that leaves Sheehy in a near-fatal state, marking a pivotal moment in the narrative.

As dawn breaks, the outcome of Boyle's violent clash remains uncertain. Everett reflects on their chaotic partnership and the potential consequences of Boyle's reckless actions, highlighting the moral complexities of their journey.