The story follows Youngblood Priest ( Ron O'Neal ), a charismatic cocaine dealer who plans to retire after "one last big score.".

The film's most enduring legacy is the sizzling score by Curtis Mayfield .

Critics frequently praise O'Neal's "cool" and "brooding" performance, as well as the film's authentic, raw urban realism. It acts as a powerful time capsule for 1970s New York City, featuring flamboyant wardrobes and customized cars .