It was shot in the early 80's and considering the time frame, it really wasn't that bad if you keep that in mind..for an indie film. It was shot both in SJ and partially LA. My cousin is the guy who plays "Cisco" and the girl "Shy Girl" is his true to life wife to this day. He's now a minister out in Austin, TX. Also, the house they lived in when Duke came home from the pen was my great grandparents house at the time, they let them film there. If you're SUPER gangsta, you'll hate the movie. If you watch it with an open mind, you'll enjoy it. IMO
PS - I really do this 408 SAN JO stuff....roots deeper than most of you could fathom.