American Me (1992)

Actor-turned-director Edward James Olmos set out to spread the word against the destructiveness of gang violence with this 1992 gritty drama. Set in the barrios of East Los Angeles, he attempts to cover 30 years in the life of a family with strong gang ties. This brutally realistic story may not intentionally glorify violence, but it offers no answers. (Olmos actually shot the prison scenes in Folsom, which explains their harsh reality.) Great performances though, especially by Olmos and William Forsythe. Olmos plays a gang leader released from prison who is finally in touch with himself, only to realize it is too late. The one major problem with this well-intentioned flick is that it is rated R for violence, nudity, and profanity. Therefore, the kids who most need its message are not, in theory, the ones who will see it. --Rochelle O'Gorman Amazon.com

 waste of time
This was a horrible movie and complete waste of time. The acting was terrible, it was like they were reading a script. I don't get what the other review was talking about when they said they had nightmares for weeks, there was nothing that graphic in here. I had to force myself to finish watching it, hoping it would get better, but it didn't. March 10, 2008

 A near textbook example of down and dirty multi-cultural conflict.
A famous writer once said "Society creates the criminal, so that it may punish him". Analyze this quote as you view "American Me". If you work(ed) in human/social services, especially with Latinos and/or formerly incarcerated felons, this is an important film. The average "citizen" may find a whole new empathy, compassion and insight that was hidden deep in their innermost being. Unfortunately, the average racist may find reason to say, "I told you so". A psycho-therapist may find a smorgasbord of personality disorder diagnosis. Don't look for political correctness here, as there is very little if any. There are some harsh and violent sexual scenes that could have just as well been left out but that's Hollywood. I don't suggest this film for anyone that has experienced severe sexual or physical trauma, as it may trigger anxiety and emotional pain. November 18, 2007

 OMG!!
This movie gave me nightmares for a week. Seriously, I felt physically ill while watching this movie. It's been a long time since I saw a movie this graphic in nature. Frankly, it's not for the squeamish or overly sensitive crowd. With that being said, it's a typical prison drama. You pretty much have the usual rape, death by shankings, and rioting scenes. To this day, I have never seen a prison movie that ended on a good note, and I certainly can't remember anything good about this one either. This movie was just sad and depressing from start to finish. Edward James Olmos plays a youth who's life is a downward spiral soon as he's sent to a youth detention center. Of course, he's raped there by another male youth (which he kills). From there, he gains respect, but he also gains a sure ticket into prison as soon as he turns 18. This movie is sad because even after he gets out of prison he can't seem to make it on the outside or blend into society because he's been locked away for so long, and he still has that prison mentality. Ultimately that leads to his demise. That's pretty much what this movie is about..nothing real impressive! I do think what pushes it over the edge is the brutality of the rape scenes. I must admit watching a man being tied down and gang raped by 4 inmates was enough to haunt me for a while. Especially, the fact that they were sick enough to enjoy this at the same time, and be so kind as to use KY Jelly first. What happens after that I won't even mention. This movie is not for kids at all. However, I do suggest that it be shown to all teens and pre-teens who think their so tough, and that jail is a place they truely want to be. I think that after they see this it might change quite a few minds. June 12, 2007

 Eye-opener
I actually saw this film in my criminal justice class. It's a very disturbing but realistic film. You can tell, a lot of research was put into its development. This story does not trash anyone, it just tells a very true account of prison life and the development of the original prison gang. May 26, 2007

 Fue chida
I felt sick watching American Me, but then I appreciated more and more as I constantly continued to watch it again. I recommend sensitive people NOT to watch it. Any vato from the Barrio should relate to this material. Cuz I did. :) April 27, 2007

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