Once Upon a Time in Mexico

Once Upon a Time in Mexico
by Robert Rodriguez

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Movie Reviews of Once Upon a Time in Mexico

Movie Review: El Pistolero Con No Ojos
Summary: 5 Stars

"Once Upon A Time In Mexico" (hereby referred to as "OUTIM") is a film made for himself, as upposed to the kiddie trilogy "Spy Kids." OUTIM is a film that filmmakers can appreciate and may leave casual movie-goers in the dust. Being an aspiring filmmaker, I loved this movie, and I can't see it being done any other way. Now, on to specifics.

ACTING:
Needless to say, I believe that Johnny Depp was one of the greatest assets to the film. His subtle mannerisms and quirky one-liners really drive his character as Sands, the corrupt FBI agent, who actually may or may not be on the bad side. Mr. Banderas maintains the stoic role of "El," the namless wandering mariachi, hell bent on vengence. As El Mariachi, Antonio does a wonderful job, even though the role mostly consists of an intense, often insane looking stare. He does not recieve as much screen time as Depp, which could be seen as a good or bad thing. None of the other characters made much of an impression, mostly they are there to move the story line. One exception is the delicious Selma Hayek, who will always be in my head. She is also the reason for El's thirst for vengence, which the other reviewers have so courteously spoiled for you.

CINEMATOGRAPHY & EDITING:
Rodriguez's visual style is very unique and constant throughout the El Mariachi series. The whole movie was filmed and edited by Rodriguez himself, and the techniques are not of regular Hollywood variety. He has shot the movie like a independent film, using quick cuts and exaggerated zoom-ins, much like "El Mariachi," which moves the action very well. The editing shows the same sort of simplicity, which makes the movie seem a little rough at the edges, which I enjoyed very much. One of Rodriguez's personal philosophies is to do more with less, inspiring you to think of more creative ways to do things, even with a small budget ("El Mariachi" was done for about $7,000). It may seem choppy, but you must understand that it is his style, and a post-modern one at that.

STORYLINE & MUSIC:
The story takes place not too soon after Desperado. I'll give you the basics, as to not spoil anything: Sands is on a mission to take down a cartel, in any unscrupulous way possible, dragging El into the mess, and El Mariachi wants to kill the corrupt general of Mexico for revenge reasons. Those are the two main plots. In between the two are a series of small stories that take place with other characters and eventually get wound up between them. It is somewhat convoluted, but give it time and everything will come into place. Of course, healthy doses of blood an violence insue. Some people that I know had problems with the feasability of some of the situations. I viewed the story as a legend, and in legends, the heros do amazing things. No need for explanation required. The archaic setting of Mexico fits perfectly with the storyline. As for music, you couldn't ask for a better original score. The music is amazing and sets the mystic tone of the movie. Most of the music was written by Rodriguez himself, and one song by the multi-talented Ms. Hayek, sung beautifully.

WRAP-UP:
I walked out of the theater saying "Woah" and instantly wanted to see it again. I wish I could tell you in more detail about what happened and express my views on the characters, but alas, I can't, because that would be ruining a amazing film. Many of the characters show character develpoment, and you have to really pay attention to enjoy the subtleties of their characters. A must see for 2003, and a must buy DVD. Enjoy.

Summary of Once Upon a Time in Mexico