Things Change

Two gangsters from Chicago visit Gino's shoe store and discreetly hand him a $100 bill. They ask Gino to meet them later, setting the stage for a high-stakes encounter that will change his life.

During the meeting, one gangster reveals a crucial mix-up involving a murder accusation and shows Gino a photo of someone who looks like him. Mr. Green, the gangsters' leader, proposes that Gino confess to the crime and spend 3 to 5 years in prison in exchange for generous compensation.

Gino hesitantly accepts the proposal and receives an old Sicilian coin from Mr. Green as a token of appreciation for his agreement. This coin symbolizes the deal's weight and the challenges that lie ahead for Gino.

Another gangster, Jerry, is assigned to prepare Gino for his future confession. They spend a few days at a hotel training, ensuring Gino will be ready for the dramatic transition into a life that includes prison time.

Jerry decides to treat Gino to a getaway in Lake Tahoe before the impending prison time. Their trip takes a turn when Jerry encounters an old acquaintance and exaggerates Gino's significance in the mafia, securing them a luxurious suite at no expense.

While at the casino, Jerry sets up a rigged roulette game for Gino that allows him to win a small amount. To everyone's surprise, Gino wins $35,000 but then loses it all in another game, yet he remains unfazed by his loss.

Jerry experiences panic when he fears that Gino has left with showgirls. Their worries escalate when two unfamiliar gangsters invite them to lunch with mafia boss Don Giuseppe, raising tension around their situation.

Although Don Giuseppe is initially suspicious, Gino’s display of the Sicilian coin creates an unexpected bond between them. This connection leads to an invitation for Gino to stay the night, further entwining him in the mafia's world.

Back at the resort, Jerry learns that Mr. Green is involved in a major mafia meeting that night. Concerned for Gino's safety, he hastily devises a plan to escape but ends up having to steal a car when their plans go awry.

After running out of gas, their situation turns desperate until they fortuitously bump into the two showgirls again, who lend Gino cash for gas. This act of kindness allows them to return to Chicago just in time.

Once back in Chicago, Gino and Jerry reflect on their future fishing trips to Sicily. As they talk, Jerry wrestles with guilt and pleads with Gino to back out of their dangerous deal, but Gino insists on keeping his word.

Their situation becomes even dire when another gangster shows up to escort them to court, revealing that their boss plans for Gino to be killed—by Jerry himself. The realization of this treachery leaves Gino feeling trapped and anxious.

Feeling cornered, Gino heads to Lake Michigan for clarity while Jerry fights off the gangster who was sent to kill Gino. During this intense standoff, Gino reaches out for help from Don Giuseppe.

During the subsequent court hearing, the disguised gangster sent to kill Gino faces justice as he is sentenced to life imprisonment. This outcome solidifies Gino’s hope for a future free from the mob’s clutches.

Having narrowly escaped a grim fate, Gino and Jerry return to the shoe shop, ready to resume their daily lives. They share a knowing look as they contemplate the whirlwind of events they have just experienced.