An epic story of three brothers. Bound by blood. Divided by fate. Driven by destiny.
Based on the true life experiences of poet Jimmy Santiago Baca, the film focuses on half-brothers Paco and Cruz, and their bi-racial cousin Miklo. It opens in 1972, as the three are members of an East L.A. gang known as the "Vatos Locos", and the story focuses on how a violent crime and the influence of narcotics alter their lives. Miklo is incarcerated and sent to San Quentin, where he makes a "home" for himself. Cruz becomes an exceptional artist, but a heroin addiction overcomes him with tragic results. Paco becomes a cop and an enemy to his "carnal", Miklo.
street gang
ghetto
juvenile prison
artist
jail
east los angeles
youth gang
hood
gang
racism
drugs
mexican american
barrio
police shootout
cholo
lowrider