American Me is a harrowing portrayal of the inner workings of the Mexican Mafia, the most ruthless and powerful criminal organization in California's prison system. The film explores the origins of the gang and delves into the psychological and sociological factors that contribute to the perpetration of violent crime.
The story follows Santana, a young Chicano man who rises through the ranks of the Los Angeles gang culture and eventually becomes the leader of the Mexican Mafia. Along with his loyal followers, Santana is responsible for orchestrating countless murders, drug deals, and other criminal activities from his cell in Folsom Prison.
As the years go by, Santana begins to realize the toll that his violent lifestyle has taken on himself and his community. He reflects on his past mistakes and hopes to turn his life around after his eventual release from prison. However, his former gang members have other plans for him, and he is quickly drawn back into a world of drugs, guns, and bloodshed.
Throughout the film, Olmos's directing style is visceral and unflinching, portraying the gritty reality of gang violence with brutal honesty. The film also features standout performances from Olmos himself, as well as William Forsythe, who plays Santana's rival gang leader J.D., and Pepe Serna, who portrays Santana's best friend and fellow gang member Mundo.
Overall, American Me is a sobering and gripping film that sheds light on the dark underworld of prison gangs and their impact on the communities they inhabit.