Das Gesetz der Gewalt (1992)

Das Gesetz der Gewalt: Directed by Edward James Olmos. With Sal Lopez, Vira Montes, Roberto Martín Márquez, Dyana Ortelli. A Mexican-American Mafia kingpin is released from prison, falls in love for the first time, and grows introspective about his gangster lifestyle.

“American Me (1992) was the directing debut of long time character actor Edward James Olmos. This film is a historical fiction depiction of the rise of La Emme, The Mexican Mafia. The movie follows the lives of three street gang members who by a sad twist of fate end up in Juvenille Hall. From there they graduate to the big time. Folsom Prison. Inside the walls of Folsom, the three form the most powerful gang inside the California Penal System.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eOlmos turns the story into a Shakespherian tragedy. A story about a dangerous cycle that repeats over and over within certain communities and how the lack of education can be dangerous. Like they say, an idle mind is the devilu0026#39;s playground. Many of these characters had too much u0026quot;idle timeu0026quot; before they hit rock bottom. Olmosu0026#39; direction, editing and use of lighting is that of a long time film-maker. The cinematography complements his directorial style. He makes these figures into noble persons who live and die by a code forged from blood, shanks and sweat. Great stuff from Mr. Olmos, a true masterpiece from a first time director.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eSadly, Mr. Olmos has took a lot of flack for this film and has made some powerful people very angry. If I were him I would have taken a safer route and gave the prison gangs some fake names and cut all ties to any u0026quot;Technical Supportu0026quot; but thatu0026#39;s not his style. He should be commended for his efforts because others wouldnu0026#39;t have the courage or conviction to do this. Mr. Olmos doesnu0026#39;t glamorize the lifestyle either. Although theyu0026#39;re men of honor amongst themselves I wouldnu0026#39;t want to be in their shoes. But what people have to do to stay alive in prison should not be looked down upon and on the other hand, when oneu0026#39;s on the outside they should leave what they learned within the prison walls. Because itu0026#39;s a whole different ball game out here.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eHighly recommended.”