A deep exploration of whether our lives are shaped by our choices or by forces beyond our control. This crime drama presents three timelines with different outcomes.
Directed by Attila Korosi, Live and Die in East LA combines crime, neorealism, fate, and free will. While its stylistic detour momentarily stalls the narrative, the film rewards viewers with its ability to highlight the unpredictable consequences of human decisions.
The story follows Attila (Atilla Korosi) and Sado (Richard Cabral) as they find themselves entwined with Tony’s gang across all timelines. A series of events is set in motion by Anita (Anita Korosi) when she finds herself in a predicament that only her brother can save her from. Excited about coming to the US, Anita is pre-warned by their father. As one can imagine, there are repercussions to making a deal with a gang leader. Survival comes down to luck, pity, or skill, and for Attila and Sado, the probability of survival is low.
Atilla plays many heart-wrenching roles both on and off screen. Being the director, producer, and lead actor, he pursues his role with unwavering courage. As a doctor in the film, it comes as a surprise when he doesn’t waver at the sight of a gun being wielded. Maybe, again, it’s his need to save his sister that drives him. While Attila’s motivation is personal, Sado plays a huge role in leading to this alternative timeline. The dynamic between the two is one of brotherhood, as they each see the other’s misfortune as their own. Having characters like Tony (Robert LaSardo), who embody strength, family, and an air of mystery, heavily complements the film’s structure. He expertly navigates times when he’s emotionally defeated and times when he can easily end lives.
The interesting thing is that it feels like Atilla weaves his life into the film. The idea of him and Sado pursuing filmmaking while releasing this debut is interesting. That, however, is not the most interesting part of the film; the idea of lives’ interconnections carries this film from start to finish. It shows how one choice by one person may unintentionally change the lives of other people.
Live and Die in LA is accompanied by an animation that portrays a caterpillar that has its own path to take to become a butterfly and not an ugly moth. It captures viewers with its accurate narration, as it embodies what the characters stand for. Will they flourish (butterfly) from their choices or become victims of their own doing (moth)? As an art lover, this symbolism was appreciated, and it was immersed naturally; however, this stylistic detour reduces the urgency established in the scenes. Additionally, it interprets the consequences of choice, removing that ability from the audience.
Live and Die in LA’s greatest strength lies in its ability to evoke serious conversations on whether our actions are predetermined or whether we have a choice. However, this crime drama also shows the importance of familial ties and the possibility of breaking free from cycles of violence.
