The action takes place during 80s in New York City. Bobby (Joaquin Phoenix) is a young boss of a trendy nightclub owned by Russians. With the explosion of drug traffic, the Russian mafia expands its influence over the world of the night. Bobby, always seeking for ascension, must hide his bounds with his family. Only his girlfriend, Amada (Eva Mendes) is aware since his brother, Joseph (Mark Wahlberg), and his father, Burt (Robert Duvall), are prominent members of the New York City Police Department. Every day, the confrontation between the Russian mafia and the police are becoming increasingly violent, and threats against Bobby’s family must make him choose a side.