Across The Tracks

Well-meaning, predictable family melodrama. Like all movie brothers, the Maloney siblings, Billy (Rick Shroder) and Joe (Brad Pitt), are a study in contrasts. Hardworking Joe juggles a job, education and competitive running; he's a model son to their single mother (Carrie Snodgress). Moody, alienated Billy is a neighborhood pariah: paroled after a narcotics offense, he hangs out with his drug-dealing buddies. Joe urges Billy to join the high school track team himself, and in trite-and-true fashion the noble sporting activity helps reform the delinquent. But while Billy's star rises on the field, Joe gives in to jealousy and resentment, especially when Billy proves ...