During the summer of 1977, a series of brutal murders strikes fear into a working-class Italian-American neighborhood in the Bronx. The residents are on edge as a serial killer, dubbed the Son of Sam, prowls the streets. Vinny, a promiscuous hairdresser, tries to maintain his balance between a turbulent relationship with his wife, Dionna, and his nightlife pursuits. Richie, his childhood friend who has embraced the punk subculture, faces scorn and suspicion from his traditional community. As the heatwave continues and tensions rise, friendships and loyalties are tested by both external dangers and internal conflicts.

With the killer still at large, paranoia grips the tight-knit community. Relationships fray and gossip spreads, leading to an atmosphere thick with mistrust and fear. The media frenzy exacerbates the situation, as neighbors turn on each other in a desperate bid for security. Meanwhile, the police struggle to track down the elusive murderer. The neighborhood descends into chaos as Vinny and Richie’s lives intersect with the wider hysteria. Personal betrayals and community discord escalate, setting up a backdrop of suspense and unease that perpetuates throughout these hot, harrowing months.