Tre lives in a dangerous neighborhood where violence, drugs, and crime are prevalent. He wants to get an education and leave, but is tempted by his friends' actions. His father Furious tries to guide Tre towards making the right choices to achieve a better future and avoid the traps of the neighborhood. Their relationship is strained as Tre asserts his independence but looks up to his father. The film explores the choices faced by those in the neighborhood between immediate gratification and delaying rewards for a future goal.