Is Bound by Honor appropriate for children?

# Bound by Honor - Parental Guide This R-rated crime drama contains strong violence and language that make it unsuitable for children. The film follows three young men involved in gang life and prison, featuring brutal scenes, frequent profanity, and moderate sexual content. It's best reserved for mature teens and adults who can handle its gritty subject matter.

What age is Bound by Honor suitable for?

Our verdict for Bound by Honor is: Not recommended. See the age grid on this page for specific recommendations by age group.

Is Bound by Honor safe for children? | ScreenWise Parent Guide

Content breakdown

🔫

Violence

Strong

🗣️

Language / Profanity

Strong

🔞

Sexual Content

Moderate

👻

Horror / Scary

Moderate

About this movie

Type

Movie

Released

1993

Rating

Genre

Crime, Action, Drama, Thriller

Synopsis

Based on the true life experiences of poet Jimmy Santiago Baca, the film focuses on half-brothers Paco and Cruz, and their bi-racial cousin Miklo. It opens in 1972, as the three are members of an East L.A. gang known as the "Vatos Locos", and the story focuses on how a violent crime and the influence of narcotics alter their lives. Miklo is incarcerated and sent to San Quentin, where he makes a "home" for himself. Cruz becomes an exceptional artist, but a heroin addiction overcomes him with tragic results. Paco becomes a cop and an enemy to his "carnal", Miklo.

Cast

Damian Chapa

Miklo

Jesse Borrego

Cruz

Benjamin Bratt

Paco

Enrique Castillo

Montana

Full cast on IMDb ›

Age suitability

Under 6

Not yet

Ages 6–8

Not recommended

Ages 9–12

Not recommended

Ages 13+

Not recommended

Where to watch

🎬 Find on Amazon

Affiliate links support ScreenWise at no extra cost to you.

Parents also checked

The Shawshank Redemption

The Wolf of Wall Street

Not recommended

Ratings based on MPAA/TV classification and TMDB metadata. Updated March 2026.
Every child is different — always preview content for your family's specific needs.