The movie is set in Long Beach, a rundown seaside town on the outskirts of New York City. Vincent LaMarca (played by Robert De Niro) is a veteran detective with the New York City Police Department who has spent his career investigating crimes in the city. Vincent’s personal life has been marked by tragedy; his wife abandoned him and their young son, Joey, years ago, leaving Vincent to raise Joey alone.
As the film opens, Vincent is called to investigate a murder in Long Beach. The victim is found dead in an abandoned building, and all evidence points to Joey (played by James Franco), Vincent’s estranged son, as the prime suspect. Joey, who has a history of drug addiction and petty crime, becomes the focus of a citywide manhunt.
Vincent is torn between his duty as a detective and his role as a father. Despite their strained relationship, Vincent is determined to find Joey and uncover the truth behind the murder. He delves into Joey’s troubled past, revisiting painful memories and confronting his own failures as a parent.
As Vincent searches for Joey, he reconnects with Michelle (played by Frances McDormand), his former high school sweetheart who still lives in Long Beach. Michelle provides support and insight to Vincent as he grapples with his conflicting emotions and struggles to come to terms with his past mistakes.
Meanwhile, Joey goes on the run, desperately trying to evade capture and prove his innocence. He reaches out to his girlfriend, Gina (played by Eliza Dushku), and his childhood friend, Spyder (played by William Forsythe), for help as he races against time to clear his name and uncover the truth behind the murder.
As the investigation unfolds, shocking secrets and betrayals come to light, revealing the true nature of the crime and the motivations behind it. Vincent and Joey are forced to confront their demons and reconcile their troubled past in order to find redemption and closure.
In a climactic showdown, Vincent and Joey come face to face with the true perpetrator of the murder, leading to a tense and emotional confrontation that will change their lives forever. As father and son confront the sins of their past, they find solace and forgiveness in each other’s embrace.
“City by the Sea” is praised for its gripping storyline, strong performances, and emotional depth. It explores themes of family, redemption, and the enduring bond between parent and child, offering a powerful and thought-provoking portrayal of love and forgiveness in the face of adversity.