Homeboy is a 1988 American drama film directed by Michael Seresin and written by Mickey Rourke, who also stars in the film as Johnny Walker.
The film follows the story of Johnny Walker, a failed boxer who leaves his hometown of Cleveland, Ohio and moves to New York City to start anew. There, he meets Wesley Pendergrass (Christopher Walken), a small-time promoter who arranges fights for him in small clubs and bars. Johnny's dream is to become a successful boxer, win the love of Ruby (Debra Feuer), a beautiful waitress at a local bar, and start a new life for himself.
Despite his talent in boxing, Johnny is unable to make a name for himself in the ring or in his personal life. He is haunted by his past, which includes a failed marriage and a son he has never met. He turns to alcohol and drugs to cope with his problems, which makes it difficult for him to concentrate on his fights.
As Johnny's personal struggles mount, he begins to question his own worth and his ability to achieve his dreams. He finds solace in the company of Wesley, who becomes his mentor and friend. Together, they try to navigate the dangerous world of underground boxing and find a way to make Johnny's dreams a reality.
Homeboy is a poignant and gritty examination of one man's journey to find his place in the world. It highlights the themes of redemption, self-discovery, and the power of human connection. Rourke's performance is particularly noteworthy, as he delivers a nuanced and empathetic portrayal of a troubled man trying to make peace with himself and those around him.