Carlito's Way: Rise to Power is a prequel to the original Carlito's Way, which tells the story of how the legendary gangster Carlito Brigante rose to power in the criminal underworld. Set in 1960s New York City, the movie explores Carlito's journey as he navigates the world of organized crime, facing challenges such as the mafia, prison, and death. With his sharp wit and determination, Carlito proves himself to be a tough and cunning protagonist.

After serving a prison sentence, Carlito Brigante wants to steer clear of drugs and violence. However, he is pulled back into the criminal world when he is forced to participate in a drug deal. Determined to escape his past, Carlito invests the drug money in a nightclub, aiming to save enough to retire. But a series of events, including betrayal and threats from the gangsters, jeopardize his plans for a better future.