| Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
| Larenz Tate | ... | ||
| Keith David | ... | ||
| Chris Tucker | ... | ||
| Freddy Rodríguez | ... | ||
| Rose Jackson | ... | ||
| N'Bushe Wright | ... | ||
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Alvaleta Guess | ... |
Mrs. Benson
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| James Pickens Jr. | ... |
Mr. Curtis
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| Jenifer Lewis | ... |
Mrs. Curtis
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| Clifton Powell | ... |
Cutty
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| Elizabeth Rodriguez | ... |
Marisol
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| Terrence Howard | ... |
Cowboy
(as Terrence Dashon Howard)
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Ryan Williams | ... |
Young Revolutionary
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Larry McCoy | ... |
Nicky
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Rodney Winfield | ... |
Mr. Warren
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This action film, directed by the Hughes brothers, depicts a heist of old bills, retired from circulation and destined by the government to be "money to burn." However, more broadly, it addresses the issues of Black Americans' involvement in the Vietnam War and their subsequent disillusionment with progress in social issues and civil rights back home in the United States, during the 1960's. Written by Tad Dibbern <DIBBERN_D@a1.mscf.upenn.edu>
Gripping, poignant story about a young black man growing up in the 1960's Bronx whose parents groom him to follow in the footsteps of his college-bound older brother. He has his own plans however, and enlists in the Marine Corps where he survives four years of brutal warfare in Vietnam. He returns home to try and make a new life for himself, but a struggling economy and lack of formal education gradually draw him into a life of crime. An effective portrayal of black involvement in Vietnam, with good performances, powerful scenes, and shockingly graphic violence. Tate is commanding in the lead, and Tucker is a real surprise as his drug-addicted pal. Not for all tastes, but well-crafted and well-made. ***