A recovering heroin addict released from a federal Narcotic Farm. He returns to Chicago with dreams of becoming a professional drummer, struggles with relapse, deals cards for a crime boss, undergoes a grueling cold turkey withdrawal, and ultimately witnesses his wife's suicide before walking off with his ex-lover.
Schwiefka employs Frankie as a card dealer in illegal games.
Frankie used to deal cards for Schwiefka's illegal card game, and Schwiefka offers bail if Frankie returns to dealing.
Sparrow has a dependent, brotherlike bond with Frankie.
Sparrow clings to Frankie like a younger brother after Frankie returns to the neighborhood.
Molly is Frankie's former romantic attachment and becomes his strongest emotional support.
Frankie bumps into Molly, identified as his old flame, when he calls about a drumming audition.
Louie previously supplied Frankie and remains connected to his addiction.
Louie is identified as Frankie's former drug dealer, and Frankie goes to him when he wants drugs again.
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