Sin Nombre is a two stories merging into one tale concerning a Honduran teenagers (Sayra) journey into the US, coupled with an account of a Central American gang and how one of it’s members (Willy) attempts to break free from a life of crime and subservience to it’s leaders. Sayra’s journey, along with hundreds of other potential immigrants, is undertaken mainly on the top of a goods train as it dangerously weaves its way through the Central American countryside on the way to the US border. The two main characters come together when a botched robbery by Willy and another gang member means that Willy finds himself on train, and on the run from the gang. The scenes on the train are beautifully shot and the cinematography at times is breathtaking. Even better though is the portrayal of gang life. Hardly surprising though as director Cary Fukunagra apparently spent two years researching gangs and spending time with them. The authenticity is there to see on screen, ranging from the tattoos to the street slang, and as Willy's story shows, once you in a gang of this nature, there really is no way out. So does all this attention to detail make a good film? Overall, it’s a resounding yes. Though, the sudden relationship between Sayra and Willy isn’t really all that credible, you become attached to these characters, and the desperation of their lives, and genuinely hope for a favourable conclusion.
The OC Film Sting Final Verdict
Though it may feel a little too documentary at times, this is solid film making with grand framing and an authentic touch. Rating: 7/10.
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