18 With a Bullet

18 With a Bullet follows the lives of members of the 18th Street gang in El Salvador. It chronicles the activities of this notorious Central American gang, which originated in Los Angeles and expanded to El Salvador in the 1990s as gang members were deported from the US.

The film focuses on three main subjects: Charlie, a 16-year-old gang leader; Slappy, a veteran member in his 30s; and Chavieso, a rising star within the organization. Through their stories, the documentary provides insight into the daily challenges and violent realities faced by gang members.

The film showcases various aspects of gang life, including initiation rituals, drug dealing, and territorial conflicts. It depicts the brutal initiation process for new members, including a scene where a young woman is beaten as part of her induction into the gang. It also highlights the ongoing rivalry between the 18th Street gang and their bitter enemies, MS-13, as they fight for control of territory in the Salvadoran capital.

The harsh realities of gang culture are exposed throughout the documentary, including drug addiction, violence, and the constant threat of imprisonment or death. It reveals the complex relationships between gang members and their families, exploring themes of loyalty, identity, and the lack of opportunities that drive young people to join gangs.