Serpico is based on the true story of a New York policeman who discovers that honesty is not expected to be part of his job. He endures scorn and mistreatment from his fellow cops while attempting to perform his job with integrity. The character of Serpico combining the best elements of the Establishment and counter-culture is a tour-de-force for Al Pacino. The film is a breathtaking suspense story and a fascinating character study as well as a memorable statement about government`s inherent flaws.