In the gritty streets of Manchester's Pepperhill Estate, a deadly battle rages between rival gangs, led by cousins Ray and Terry, who are bound together by more than just blood ties. As they navigate the treacherous underworld, Ray seeks to escape his past and Clare's charms, while Terry is driven by an unyielding obsession that will stop at nothing. The film's dark and intense atmosphere is tempered only by David Bowie's eccentric performance as Bernie, a veteran gangster trying to keep the peace amidst the chaos.