As the Bicentennial approaches, Philadelphia reels from factory closures and crime. Controversial police commissioner Frank Rizzo seizes the moment and wins election as Mayor. The pugnacious Rizzo merges police and political power, inciting hard-driving press investigations and a recall movement. A team of South Philly song writers soothes the tension with soulful music that sweeps the nation, while the city cheers for working class heroes in the boxing ring and on the ice.