Road Dogz

Road Dogz is a coming-of-age drama film directed by Alfredo Ramos, Jr. and released in 2002. The movie follows the lives of three best friends - Midget (Clifton Collins Jr.), J.D. (Jacob Vargas), and Benny (Greg Serano) - as they navigate the streets of East Los Angeles and try to find their place in the world.

The film begins with Midget, J.D., and Benny as teenagers skipping school and getting into trouble with the local gang, the 38th Street Gang. Midget, the leader of the group, decides that they need to make a change in their lives and start their own gang. They call themselves the Road Dogz and vow to never join any other gang.

As the story unfolds, the Road Dogz struggle to find their identity and purpose in life. Benny, who is married and has a young daughter, dreams of leaving the gang life behind and becoming a police officer. J.D., on the other hand, is the most reckless of the group and has a tendency to get into trouble. He sees himself as a ladies' man and is always trying to pick up girls.

Midget is the most level-headed of the group and realizes that the Road Dogz need to do something to earn respect and establish themselves in the gang world. They begin to sell drugs and become successful, but not without consequences. One of their customers dies from an overdose, and the Road Dogz are forced to confront the reality of their actions.

As the Road Dogz get deeper into the drug world, they are also faced with rival gangs and the possibility of being killed. They must make difficult choices and try to stay true to their vow of never joining another gang.

Throughout the film, the Road Dogz are also forced to deal with personal struggles. Midget's mother is dying of cancer, J.D.'s father is an alcoholic and abusive, and Benny's wife is struggling to make ends meet. These struggles add depth to the characters and make their journey all the more poignant.

One of the strengths of Road Dogz is its portrayal of life in East Los Angeles. The film depicts the poverty and violence that many people in the community face on a daily basis. It also showcases the resilience and strength of the people who live there.

Another strength of the film is its performances. Clifton Collins Jr., Greg Serano, and Jacob Vargas give powerful performances and bring authenticity to their roles. The chemistry between the three actors is palpable and makes their friendship all the more believable.

Overall, Road Dogz is a gritty and thought-provoking film that explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and identity. It is a coming-of-age story that is both heartbreaking and uplifting. If you are a fan of films about gang life, or if you are interested in stories about the struggles of people living in poverty, then Road Dogz is a must-see.