Taking place from 1960 to 1972, this film adaptation tells the story, as revealed by real-life New York City police officer, Frank Serpico of police corruption among his colleagues. He is also at odds with his colleagues because he has something of a ‘hippie' appearance and lives in a bohemian neighborhood.
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Serpico is promoted from being in uniform to being a detective and witnesses different kinds of corruption around him, including taking bribes, which he refuses to do. His reaction is to blow the whistle but threats are made against his life. His relationship with his girlfriend suffers under the pressure at work. During a drugs arrest, Serpico is shot in the face. Following this, he is allowed to give testimony, resulting from his undercover activity, for a government inquiry into police corruption in the city. Serpico's efforts are at last rewarded and he is given the Medal of Honor. He resigns from his career, with a disability pension.
Best part of story, including ending:
I like the determination to see justice against the odds
Opinion about the main character:
I like the fact that he never gives up and sticks to his principles
