Inmate #1: The Rise of Danny Trejo

So many good films, but this is a great California Story. There are parts that don't work. The frequent comment by an attractive non-introspective actresses is a detraction. And the first of the film, Danny comes across as eccentric and not genuine, but as the film develops the man comes through and one can not come away impressed. There is one former prison guard out there that did Danny a solid by keeping his mouth shut. We are the beneficiary of Danny and some grace.

Danny Trejo is an extraordinary person coming from a very ordinary background and his story doesn't need embellishment, litle movie tricks to garner emotion or other crap like that. And that is why this little documentary is a decent one, not as in relatively good, but as in not disrespecting the viewer. It tells the story and that is it. It does have some people that kind of bring up their own opinions without actually having anything important to say, but they show their support for their friend, so it's OK.

In the film you learn how a Mexican gangbanger went to prison, got a break and never looked back. After more than 365 movies under his belt, Trejo keeps humble and helps other with drug addiction, going to prison to present his points and accepting almost every role thrown his way. I knew some of the story, but it is a great one to be told and I was happy to have seen this documentary. Trejo is 76 years old, still going strong and working as much as ever. Many people from Hollywood could learn from him.

Bottom line: See this old man, with an incredulous look on his face, talk about the life that should have ended him in his youth. He still can't get enough of life. A man to be admired and respected.

Director Brett Harvey takes a thoughtful and very inspiring look at a fascinating individuals life journey. The highs, the lows and the triumphant message of hope keep the viewer entranced. Highly recommended!

Just got out of a viewing of this movie and I really don't know how you could create a better biographical documentary. Dany Trejo is clearly an amazing human, he has an amazing story and the movie was really well made. Positive message, heart warming and good laughs. Truly an unbelievable life story.

This was a really outstanding film about hope and redemption, a man who's life could have gone sideways found a way out, a way up and is now using his Mojo to bring inspiration into people's lives. What can you say about that in this day in age of over-bloated Hollywood actors who don't have the time of day for people.

A guy like Trejo is very refreshing, this guy really seems to be putting his heart and soul into helping people, inspiring people, changing lives, and giving people hope.

Especially when you consider the lack of role models in the Latin Street Community this guy's a bit of a real life superhero, and truly a beautiful soul.

This film was very well directed, the director just let Trejo shine through, and it is a very rewarding film.