Bastards of the Party

Bastards of the Party is a 2005 documentary film that takes a deep dive into the roots of gang culture in Los Angeles. Directed by Cle 'Bone' Sloan, it highlights the impact of racial discrimination, poverty, and the influence of the Black Panther Party and the Nation of Islam on gang life. The film explores the history of two of the most notorious gangs in LA; the Bloods and the Crips, and how they were formed.

The movie tells the story of how the Black Panther Party and its leaders promoted black pride and self-determination. It also covers the impact of the assassination of the Black Panther Party leader Fred Hampton, and how it sparked a new wave of violent activism, including the birth of the Crips.

The documentary highlights the impact of police brutality, particularly the Rampart Scandal, which saw hundreds of police officers accused of corruption and excessive use of force. The film features interviews with former LAPD Chief Daryl Gates, who played a crucial role in the Rampart Scandal, and discusses the impact of his controversial policies on LA's black community.

Through candid conversations with former gang members, community activists, and law enforcement officers, the film traces the origins of the Bloods and the Crips from their roots as neighborhood defense groups to their eventual evolution into violent criminal organizations. The documentary also explores the role of music in both developing and glorifying gang culture.

One of the standout moments of the movie is the interview with former Crip member-turned-author, Anthony Ross, who discusses the difficulty of leaving the gang life behind and how his involvement with the Crips led to the death of his brother. He provides a frank insight into the reality of gang life and how violence and poverty are intertwined.

Towards the end of the film, the focus shifts to the impact of gang violence on families and communities. The mother of a slain gang member speaks about the loss of her son and the pain it caused her family. One of the most poignant moments is when a former gang member, who now works as a youth mentor, talks about his regrets and how he wished he had made different choices when he was younger.

Overall, the documentary is a poignant and thought-provoking look at the roots of gang culture in Los Angeles. It provides an insightful analysis of how social, economic, and political factors contribute to the formation of gangs, and how they continue to impact the lives of young people in disadvantaged communities. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the history of gang violence in America.