To Live and Die in L.A. is a 1985 action thriller film directed by William Friedkin. The movie revolves around Secret Service agent Richard Chance, played by William Petersen, and his partner Jimmy Hart, played by Michael Greene, who are on the hunt for a counterfeiter named Rick Masters, played by Willem Dafoe.
When Jimmy is killed during a botched sting operation, Chance vows to take down Masters at all costs. He becomes increasingly reckless and even begins breaking the law in his pursuit of justice. Along the way, he teams up with a former convict named Eric "Rick" Vukovich, played by John Pankow, who is willing to help Chance go off-book in his pursuit of Masters.
To Live and Die in L.A. is known for its gritty, realistic portrayal of both Los Angeles and the world of counterfeiting. The film features plenty of high-speed chases, shootouts, and other action set-pieces, all set against a backdrop of neon-soaked nightclubs and dingy back alleys.
Overall, To Live and Die in L.A. is a tense, thrilling action movie that has gained a cult following over the years. Its unflinching approach to violence and its bleak, downbeat ending have helped make it a standout in the genre.