Movies About Mexican Gangs

Updated May 1, 2024

So many movies have explored Movies About Mexican Gangs. We wrote about 5 of our favorites.

Blood In, Blood Out (1993)

★★★★

3.2 out of 4 stars

From Taylor Hackford, starring Damian Chapa, Jesse Borrego, Benjamin Bratt, Enrique Castillo
Rated R

Blood In, Blood Out is a 1993 American crime drama film directed by Taylor Hackford and starring Damian Chapa, Jesse Borrego, Benjamin Bratt, Enrique Castillo, and Edward James Olmos. It follows the life of three Chicano cousins from East Los Angeles, Paco, Cruz, and Miklo, who are separated when Paco and Cruz are sentenced to three years in prison for a crime they committed together. When Miklo is then recruited into a local gang, the two cousins find themselves on opposite sides of the law as they struggle to find their place in the world. The story chronicles the lives of these three men and their families as they battle the physical, emotional, and spiritual consequences of living in a violent, inner-city environment. Along the way, they must confront issues of loyalty, family, love, and revenge as they make difficult decisions in order to survive and protect their loved ones.

Carlito's Way (1993)

★★★★

3.2 out of 4 stars

From Brian De Palma, starring Al Pacino, Sean Penn, Penelope Ann Miller, John Leguizamo
Rated R

Carlito's Way is a 1993 crime drama film directed by Brian De Palma and starring Al Pacino and Sean Penn. The film follows ex-convict Carlito Brigante (Pacino), who is determined to break free from his criminal past and go straight. However, his ambitious plan is complicated by both his former associates, who want him to join in their illegal activities, and the machinations of a powerful drug lord. In order to survive and protect his girlfriend Gail (Penelope Ann Miller), Carlito must face off against the mob and the corrupt law enforcement agents who are determined to put him back behind bars. Through a series of thrilling and suspenseful events, Carlito is ultimately forced to make a difficult choice between his newfound moral code and his underworld roots.