Bound by Honor (1993)

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.

Genres: Crime, Drama, Thriller

What to watch after Bound by Honor

• Carlito's Way (1993) — Same subject: drugs
• Mystic River (2003) — Same feel: dark, dramatic
• In Cold Blood (1967) — Same feel: dark, realistic
• Blood Diamond (2006) — Same feel: dark, dramatic
• Boyz n the Hood (1991) — Same subject: street gang, ghetto
• Fresh (1994) — Same subject: street gang, ghetto