John Anderson plays an African-American Vietnam vet who returns to LA after his hitch is up. Anderson can't adjust to the iniquities of civilian life, and soon he becomes involved in minor crimes. The film explores the protagonist's rapidly disintegrating relationships with friends, family and law enforcement officials. One of the few constants in Anderson's life is his grandmother, who tries to help him understand his place in the scheme of things. Ashes and Embers represents the American film debut of Ethiopian-born director Haile Gerima. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide