Pulawa’s Empire (3-hour Martin Scorsese epic) traces Wilford Nappy Pulawa’s journey from a street hustler to a fallen crime lord in Honolulu, spanning the 1970s to 1990s. 1970s (Rise): In gritty Kalihi, young Wilford, hardened by his mother’s death, runs scams with his cousin Tommy. Guided by his uncle, a seasoned crime boss, Wilford seizes control of a protection racket, outmaneuvers a rival kingpin, and expands into smuggling and drugs. His romance with Leilani, a singer yearning to escape, anchors him but complicates his growing ambition. 1970s (Rise): In gritty Kalihi, young Wilford, hardened by his mother’s death, runs scams with his cousin Tommy. Guided by his uncle, a seasoned crime boss, Wilford seizes control of a protection racket, outmaneuvers a rival kingpin, and expands into smuggling and drugs. His romance with Leilani, a singer yearning to escape, anchors him but complicates his growing ambition. 1990s (Fall): Tommy’s betrayal, manipulated by the rival, sparks a devastating raid that kills a loyal ally. The rival murders Wilford’s uncle, leading to a stormy cliffside confrontation where Wilford spares Tommy but kills his enemy. The detective arrests Wilford, who surrenders to shield Leilani and Nalani. In court, he accepts a life sentence, sacrificing all to save his family. The film closes with Wilford in prison, gazing at a photo of Nalani, his empire gone but a flicker of peace earned.
Story added by amrowe8596 on April 14, 2025
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