The Cross and the Switchblade

The Cross and the Switchblade is the true life story of two men. David Wilkerson and Nicky Cruz. David Wilkerson (played by Pat Boone) is a Baptist preacher from the Pennsylvania countryside who goes to New York and meets an urban street gang called the Mau-Mau's. Nicky Cruz (played by Erick Estrada in his first movie before he was on CHIPS) is the leader of the gang. David is only shown suspicion and hostility from Nicky and his gang. As the Bible says David turns the other cheek and still shows them kindness and tries to teach them about Jesus. In the end Nicky accepts Christ as his Saviour and tries to get others to do the same. Mr. Cruz has since become a preacher himself.
This film was produced in 1969 and while it seems dated today it still carries a powerful message. I heard that it was about to be rated R for violence when it was first released. A cast member, I heard it was Mr. Estrada, convinced them to give it a PG rating because children should be given the message as well as adults.
Pat Boone and Erick Estrada are the perfect match of actors with their characters. You should see this film as it reminds us of how good an actor both are. Hopefully it will help you to forget all the bad shows Mr. Estrada has been stuck in since CHIPS.