They're Just My Friends (R)

synopsis

Based on a true story, "They're Just My Friends" revolves around the life and times of Punchin' Pat the New York City Kid, a product of the mean streets of the Bronx. After the death of his father, Pat attempts to find a sense of community in all the wrong places, aligning himself with local Italian-American gangsters. While training to turn pro, Pat begins a romance with neighborhood girl Gina that inflames the racist, Howard Beach neighborhood street gang, the Guido Boys. It isn't until Pat lands in jail that he finally realizes the mistakes he's made. Fortunately, Pat's physical talents and the connections he's made on the outside--including father-figure and member of the Lodge, Mr. Frank Gibbs--deliver him from prison and give him the chance to reevaluate his life.