Stanley Maxton, a war veteran, recounts his past to the Los Angeles police after being questioned about a shooting and potential murder. He shares his struggles to reintegrate into civilian life, including his time at a VA hospital for war-related issues. Stanley reveals how he got involved in Sonny Johnson's criminal "insurance" business instead of pursuing his passion for music. He also describes his relationships with dancer Jane Tafford, who was only interested in dating men who could advance her career, and Fluff, the owner of a local club, where Stanley became a regular fixture. As the police investigation unfolds, the focus of the inquiry shifts.
The Strip
In the city of angels, a driven drummer pursues his dream of playing at a nightclub, but his journey is threatened by a treacherous gangster and a seductive dancer, ultimately leading to a tragic misstep.