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.
Cast
Valente Rodriguez
Frankie
Billy Bob Thornton
Lightning
Steve Eastin
Hollenbeck Captain
Vanessa Marquez
Montana's Daughter
Thomas F. Wilson
Rollie McCann
Richard Masur
Prison Librarian
Mike Genovese
Sgt. Devereaux
Steven Anthony Jones
Cyclone
Gary Carlos Cervantes
Smokey
Roberto Contreras
Cruz's Grandfather
Gibby Brand
Jared Levinson
Elizabeth Austin
Lois Levinson
Daniel McDonald
Gallery Assistant
Richard E. Butler
Frank Velka
Michael Bofshever
Salesman
Art Snider
Councilman Snyder
Primitivo Tapia
Street Kid
Claudia Gabriella Colin
Joker's Girl
Michael McFall
Transvestite #1
Donald E. Lacy Jr.
Transvestite #2
Angel Romero
Parole Board Member
Dr. Joe Schloss
Prison Escort
Martin McDermot
Delano Guard
Catherine Price
Newscaster
Lindsey Ginter
Officer Young
Christine Avila
Mother of PCP Kid
Robert Padgett
Doctor to PCP Kid
Rudy Barrios
Tres Puntos Gangmember
Charles Guillermin
Vatos Locos
Thomas Rosales Jr.
Prisoner (uncredited)
Roxann Dawson
Girl (uncredited)
Joe Casino
Prison Guard (uncredited)
Wilfred Lopez
Vatos Locos (uncredited)
Thomas Rosales Jr.
Prisoner