240. Inmate #1 - The Rise Of Danny Trejo; movie review

INMATE #1 - THE RISE OF DANNY TREJO
Cert 15
107 mins
BBFC advice: Contains strong language, bloody images, drug references, domestic abuse

Ok, I am not a fan of Danny Trejo's movies but. after watching this film, I have great admiration of Danny Trejo the man.
His is surely the most colourful life story of anyone in Hollywood. Indeed, if it had been the basis of an original screenplay, it would have been rejected for being too far-fetched.
Trejo is the most bumped off villain in film history - his characters have met their maker in more ways than would seem possible.
But it is his real battle for his own life and then to save those of others which is far more remarkable than any picture.
Brett Harvey's documentary is a detailed expose of his time in jail to his amazing turnaround and becoming a movie star.
Finally, it alights upon his good work in helping addicts across the United States and especially his community efforts around his home in Pacoima, Los Angeles,
Trejo contributes many anecdotes, often accompanied by his infectious laugh, while others are added by those closest to him, from former jail inmates to his son and daughter.
They are in awe of him and, by the end of this film, I could see why.
I admit that I have thought of Trejo as a fairly limited actor but now realise that he would probably agree.
He realises how lucky he is to have survived the early days in which he became an addict and now sees his celebrity as an inspiration to help others.
Therefore, he never turns down the chance to speak to those who have taken the wrong path and spell out their choices.
He speaks the same language they do and has their respect for what he has done, good and bad.
Giving up time to help them and others is Trejo's trademark. A far cry from his movies personas or, indeed, the first decades of his real life.
Nevertheless, he proves that people can change because he certainly has.

Reasons to watch: One of the most arresting stories of any Hollywood celeb
Reasons to avoid: because a bit repetitious

Laughs: None
Jumps: None
Vomit: None
Nudity: None
Overall rating: 8.5/10

Did you know? Danny Trejo is officially the actor who has the most number of on-screen deaths, with a staggering 65.

The final word. Brett Harvey: "Danny was just trying to pay it back at this point in his life, and he had made such a shift in what he was doing. It infected him in such a way that, now he's increased that to levels that you never see any Hollywood actors do." Screen Rant

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