I understand that Lou Diamond Phillips did this film and another one entitled Harley before hitting it big in La Bamba and Stand and Deliver. Someone had some good business sense because I'm betting they made a few dollars in the wake of the release of those other Hollywood made films.
Back in the days of the studio system, Dakota would have been a B film and playing the bottom of double bills. Dakota certainly doesn't have the advantages of a Hollywood made product. But the location filming was fine and it is a nice heartwarming story which is the basis of any decent movie.
Lou is a kid who accidentally caused the death of his younger brother and he takes to the road. After a scuffle in a fast food joint with a couple of the locals, he works out his probation at a ranch where he makes good friends with the foreman and his family.
Turns out Lou is an ace mechanic and the owner of the ranch has a vintage car he's entering in a cross country race. A hobby that Lou's father also has.
Another part of the plot is young Jordan Burton who is a cancer survivor and an amputee. He's the son of the ranch foreman and Lou and he bond and their scenes are special.
Things all do work out in the end in this nice family film for young Lou Diamond Phillips. Dakota is good wholesome entertainment even though it hasn't Hollywood production values.
