Terminal Island Prison broadcasts the show 'Death Race' to the world via a popular paysite on internet. It's not only a race to the finish line, but a battle pitting car against car. Jensen Ames is framed for his wife's murder. The murderer is actually a masked intruder that points a finger-gun at Ames as he leaves. Ames is sent to prison where he is coerced by Hennessey, the sadistic prison warden, to become a new driver. If he wins five Death Races he will be freed. Ames learns he is part of a plot to keep the legend of Frankenstein alive, solely for the personal profit of Hennessey. He confronts Hennessey about the driver. His revenge is thwarted by the prison guards telling them to save it for the race.