We Own the Night

In November 1988, New York City is hit by an unprecedented wave of crime catalyzed by a new and dangerous narcotic. The police force is caught in the crossfire, mourning the deaths of their own at an alarming rate, with two officers being buried each month.

Bobby Green, portrayed by Joaquin Phoenix, manages a Russian nightclub in Brighton Beach, owned by his mentor Marat Buzhayev. Striving to stay away from the pervasive crime, Bobby indulges in the nightlife while cherishing a romantic relationship with his girlfriend, Amada.

Amid the chaos, Bobby dreams of launching a new club in Manhattan for Marat, seeking opportunities beyond the nightlife he currently inhabits. His aspirations provide a glimmer of hope in a world dominated by crime and violence, though he remains shackled to his mentor's criminal ties.

Bobby lives a double life, torn between his loyalty to his family and his current lifestyle. His brother, Police Captain Joseph Grusinsky, and their father Bert, a Deputy Chief, embody law enforcement, creating tension as Bobby keeps his underworld connections hidden.

The fragile balance of Bobby's life shatters when Joseph is injured in an assassination attempt. This sudden turn of events forces Bobby to reevaluate his stance in the brewing war between law enforcement and criminals.

Realizing the looming danger posed by Vadim Nezhinski's criminal operations, Bobby and Joseph set aside their differences to join forces. Determined to dismantle the drug lord’s empire, they find renewed purpose in the fight against crime.

Bobby confronts the tumultuous realities of nightclub life, filled with chaotic parties, drugs, and violent disputes. These experiences test his resolve and moral compass, pushing him towards a decision about what side he stands on.

As Joseph battles to recover from his injuries, Bobby endures heart-wrenching moments at the hospital, characterized by lingering uncertainty. This period of waiting intensifies Bobby's internal struggle between his love for his brother and their conflicting worlds.

Bobby's dealings with the underworld deepen as he undertakes undercover efforts to protect his family. Each move he makes becomes increasingly perilous, leading to intense confrontations that reveal the violent reality of the conflicts he faces.

The brothers navigate their shattered familial bonds while trying to deliver justice for the fallen officers within the NYPD. Each confrontation brings to light their struggles not only against criminal forces but also against their own family's expectations.

Bobby ultimately chooses to pursue a career in law enforcement, seeking redemption in a world filled with chaos and crime. This pivotal decision marks a profound transformation in Bobby, aligning his life with the values once upheld by his father.

The film culminates in a poignant graduation ceremony at the Police Academy, where Bobby reflects on his journey. Surrounded by fellow officers, he contemplates the steep price of loyalty and the darkness they fight against.