Year: 1986
Runtime: 109 min
Language: English
This music video, created for Bob Dylan's song from the film Band of the Hand, combines stylized film clips with dynamic strobe effects. Featuring performances by Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers and Stevie Nicks, the video visually interprets the rebellious spirit of the song and the movie's narrative. It’s a unique and visually striking interpretation of the film’s theme.
Warning: spoilers below!
Haven’t seen Band of the Hand yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!
Read the complete plot breakdown of Band of the Hand (1986), including all key story events, major twists, and the ending explained in detail. Discover what really happened—and what it all means.
In this gritty drama, we follow the journey of five young misfits, each grappling with their individual tendencies for troublemaking. They are granted a second chance by Indian Joe Tegra, portrayed by Stephen Lang, a tough-as-nails Vietnam veteran and Native American leader. This troubled quintet includes:
Ruben Pacheco, played by Michael Carmine, the ruthless head of the Home Boys, currently serving time for aggravated assault and armed robbery;
Moss Roosevelt, brought to life by Leon, his counterpart in the 27th Avenue Players, incarcerated for similar offenses;
Carlos Aragon, depicted by Danny Quinn, a sly drug trafficker sentenced to four years due to a police sting operation;
James Lee “J.L.” MacEwen, portrayed by John Cameron Mitchell, the youngest and most volatile individual in the group, serving a hefty ten-year sentence for manslaughter and arson;
and finally, Dorcey Bridger, characterized by Al Shannon, a slippery car thief facing multiple charges, including auto theft and a notorious history of attempting to escape from juvenile halls.
These young offenders are forced to navigate the unforgiving landscape of the swamp, discovering that their survival depends on their ability to rely on one another while adapting to their harsh new environment. As they traverse this treacherous terrain, they begin to lay the foundations for redemption, tackling the challenge of revitalizing a neglected neighborhood in Miami’s most dangerous district. They take action against pimps, prostitutes, and drug dealers who have taken over a vacant house they claim as their own.
However, their budding sense of purpose is precarious and soon encounters severe backlash. Their efforts provoke the wrath of a notorious drug lord, Cream, played by Laurence Fishburne, whose loyal clientele reacts violently, leading to a tragic series of confrontations that ultimately results in the death of Joe. In the aftermath of these events, the surviving members of the group, ignited by their sense of injustice, embark on a reckless mission. They plan a daring offensive against a heavily armed drug manufacturing facility, equipped with nothing less than an M-134 Minigun, diving headfirst into the chaos they have stirred.
Last Updated: November 17, 2024 at 20:08
Don't stop at just watching — explore Band of the Hand in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Band of the Hand is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.
Track the full timeline of Band of the Hand with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.
Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape Band of the Hand. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.
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