King Ivory film explores fentanyl crisis in Tulsa

The film ‘King Ivory’ (King Ivory: Vício das Ruas), directed and written by John Swab, explores the devastating social and sanitary crisis caused by fentanyl in the United States. Set in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the narrative uses a multi-perspective structure to connect various figures involved in the drug trade, including narcotics officers, cartel leaders, inmates, and vulnerable adolescents.

The story follows narcotics officer Layne West, played by James Badge Dale, as he attempts to dismantle local refineries and distributors alongside his partner and an FBI agent. The plot highlights the personal toll of the epidemic, as West’s own son becomes involved with fentanyl. The film depicts the decentralization of Mexican cartels and how local gangs have taken over the distribution of synthetic drugs through state penitentiaries and borders.