A Guide to Recognizing Your Saints

Set against the gritty backdrop of 1980s Astoria, Queens, this film follows the tumultuous coming-of-age journey of a young man named Dito, portrayed by Shia LaBeouf. As Dito navigates the challenges of his neighborhood, he encounters a series of influential figures, or “saints,” who shape his path. The narrative is interwoven with reflections from an older Dito, played by Robert Downey Jr., as he returns home to confront his past. The film, directed by Dito Montiel, is notable for its raw and authentic portrayal of urban life and features a strong supporting cast, including Channing Tatum and Rosario Dawson. While it didn’t win major awards, it was well-received for its powerful performances and storytelling. For those interested, the movie can be viewed for free on Soap2day.