So, what’s it about? The movie tells the story of Montoya Santana (Edward James Olmos), a young man who was introduced to gang life at an early age. As a result, he’s facing an 18-year prison sentence. Although he participates in the jail’s drug trade, he pursues a totally different lifestyle upon his release, which includes a family-centered mindset. His dedication is put to the test when his no-good friends (Forsythe, Pepe Serna) encourage him to engage in illegal activities…again.
In addition to Olmos, Serna and Forsythe, American Me also stars Sal Lopez (Pedro), Vira Montes (Esperanza), Dyana Ortelli (Yolanda) and Panchito Gómez (young Montoya Santana). Olmos (Battlestar Galactica) directed the film, while Floyd Mutrux (Dick Tracy) and Desmond Nakano (American Pastime) wrote the screenplay.
Netflix categorizes the film as “gritty” and “violent,” so please don’t let the kiddos come near this one. (You’ll thank us later.)
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