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Bound by Honor (1993)

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Movie review

From Time Out Film Guide

Few films justify three-hour running times, and, despite solid performances, this epic tale of a Chicano sub-culture isn't one of them. Certainly, there are moments of powerful physical and emotional violence as half-caste hero Miklo (Chapa) attempts to consolidate his gangland heritage. Convicted of a shooting, Miklo rises to prominence within prison walls, while his former accomplices on the outside turn variously to drug abuse and law enforcement. What bond can remain between the blood brothers when circumstances divide them so dramatically? Clearly a labour of love for director Hackford, the film oozes integrity and is heavy with the stench of an authentic milieu; but forceful set-pieces and astute cultural observations are lost amid a sea of confusing (and eventually dull) stand-offs between warring gangs.

Author: MK

Time Out Film Guide

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User reviews of this film

Blake said...

Posted on Dec 12 2009 04:35 This movie is very underrated and the sole basis of arguments against it is it's "too long." Taking away the jargon of this review, the only argument this review can claim against the movie is that the complexities of gang life, and Latino culture overwhelmed the reviewer. Admittedly, one must fully understand gang culture and the metaphors in this movie to fully appreciate the mind-blowing effect the movie has. The way the movie interprets and displays la oranda is truely amazing and one would have to have some back ground knowledge of the gang, or mafia i should say, that la oranda is based on. Otherwise the movie will probably go over your head and the extreme acting seem unnecessary. To sum it up, this movie deserves a great rating just for the way it exhibits gang life, giving a little insight to this sub-culture for people that have no understanding of this underground world.

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