“American Me” (1992) directed by Edward James Olmos, starring Edward James Olmos & William Forsythe / Z-View

American Me (1992)

Director: Edward James Olmos

Screenplay: Floyd Mutrux, Desmond Nakano; story by Floyd Mutrux

Stars: Edward James Olmos, William Forsythe, Pepe Serna, Lopez, Dyana Ortelli, Lance August, Cody Glenn, Don Pugsley and William Smith.

Tagline: In prison they are the law. On the streets they are the power.

The Plot…

American Me follows three friends, Montoya Santana (Olmos), JD (Forsythe) and Mundo (Serna) from their days of youthful crime to their leadership of the powerful La Eme gang.

Thoughts (beware of spoilers)…

American Me is based on real people and events, but was fictionalized.  Some of the choices made were not well received.  Reportedly at least three of the consultants for the film were murdered after the movie’s release.  Danny Trejo talks about the problems and the people who were killed in this interview (start at 24:32).

Several scenes were shot at Folsom State Prison and the California Institution for Men.  Real gang members, prisoners and guards are seen on screen.

Edward James Olmos’ debut as a director.

American Me (1992) rates 4 of 5 stars.