John and Charlie, two foster brothers and New York City transit cops, patrol the subway system and share a close bond despite their different personalities. John is responsible and level-headed, while Charlie is reckless and prone to gambling. Both are deeply affected by Charlie's mounting debts to a dangerous bookie. The tension between fulfilling their duties and addressing their personal challenges grows even more strained when they become involved in a plot concerning the "money train," a high-security subway car transporting the daily transit revenue. Their supervisor, Donald Patterson, poses a significant obstacle with his hostile attitude and rigid enforcement of the rules.

As the stakes rise, the introduction of Grace Santiago, a new transit officer, further complicates the brothers' relationship. Both John and Charlie develop feelings for Grace, igniting a love triangle that adds emotional conflict. Under the pressure of their dire financial situation and Patterson's relentless scrutiny, Charlie concocts a risky plan involving the money train. The plan tests the brothers' loyalty and ethics, leading them down a perilous path filled with unexpected twists and dangerous confrontations.