Based on true events in 1901 Texas, a small town Mexican-American farmer is accused of murdering a sheriff after a misunderstanding stemming from a language barrier between both. Edward James Olmos (Zoot Suit, Selena, Blade Runner) plays Cortez, who is determined to prove his innocence after a manhunt is launched against him. Based on the 1958 book A Pistol in His Hand by Ameríco Paredes (who also cowrote the screenplay), the story centers around prejudice, resiliency, and the courage to fight for injustice – which are themes still relevant today. It was directed by Robert M. Young (Alambrista!, Short Eyes) and was the first film for Olmos Productions. In 2022, the film was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress as being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.” — Jaime Mendez

Rated: PG