Masculinity and Violence

The gangsters equate manhood with toughness, gunplay, and emotional coldness; Rico's disdain for Joe's dancing and his own self-discipline reflect a code where violence is a measure of worth.

Violence is portrayed as a tool for asserting dominance and proving manhood in the criminal world.

The men assert dominance through planning violence, with Rico's quick temper and Otero's defense of Rico's actions.

Rico's love for his gun alongside his hair suggests a link between his masculine identity and violent capability.

Rico's aggressive leadership and the crew's reliance on firearms highlight a culture of violent masculinity.