Paid in Full 2002

Paid in Full follows the journey of a young man, Ace, portrayed by Wood Harris, as he becomes a prominent figure in Harlem’s cocaine trade. Initially stuck in a monotonous job at a dry cleaner’s, Ace finds himself constantly tempted by his sister’s boyfriend, Calvin, a flashy drug dealer who lures him with promises of wealth and excitement. Despite these enticements, Ace prudently avoids the drug life, cautioning Calvin that his ostentatious methods will ultimately lead to his downfall.

However, Calvin’s arrest sets off a chain of events that leads Ace to seize his chance in the drug world, thanks to a fortuitous meeting with Lulu, a Dominican dealer. Partnering with his charismatic best friend Mitch and tough enforcer Rico, Ace quickly builds a formidable drug empire. While Mitch is the flashy face of their operation, Ace tactfully maintains a low profile, focusing on the business without drawing undue attention.

Mitch’s humorous remark, suggesting that Ace will become the “George Jefferson” of the neighborhood, illustrates their camaraderie, but as the stakes rise, so do the dangers. When Calvin is released from prison and feels threatened by Ace’s rising power, he seeks to regain his status, leading to a violent confrontation that leaves Ace critically wounded but alive. In an act of vengeance, Rico kills Calvin, highlighting the ruthless lifestyle they have embraced.

Tragedy strikes further when Mitch’s brother, Sonny, is kidnapped. Desperate to save him, Mitch seeks Ace’s help for one last drug deal to raise the ransom. Unfortunately, Rico, seizing the moment, betrays them, killing Mitch in the process. Once Ace discovers this betrayal, he orchestrates a confrontation with Rico, leading to his arrest. In a twist of fate, Rico’s downfall comes when he is captured while trying to expand his drug connections.

Meanwhile, the fate of Mitch’s brother remains grim as the ransom is never paid, revealing a betrayal from within his own family. Ultimately, Ace extricates himself from the perilous drug scene, crafting a new life with the diamonds he salvaged, attempting to leave behind the dangerous world he once navigated with such ambition. The film captures the essence of loyalty, betrayal, and the harsh realities of street life, showcasing how quickly the tides can turn in the pursuit of power and success.