Desperado (1995)
Robert Rodriguez blew minds when he created “El Mariachi” for $7,000. The sequel added a brooding Antonio Banderas and sizzling Salma Hayek to rack up $58 million worldwide. But was “Desperado” actually good?
If you’re looking for cool cameos, hot sex scenes, bloody bar fights and a strong female lead, then yes. If you’re looking for believable gunplay, a plot that makes sense, badass sidekicks or artistic composition, then you’re out of luck.
In this episode, commissioned by listener Rachel, the Shat Crew discusses Steve Buscemi always being the same age, Quentin Tarantino always being Quentin Tarantino and henchmen always being unreliable.
Mariachi (Antonio Banderas) plunges headfirst into the dark border underworld when he follows a trail of blood to the last of the infamous Mexican drug lords, Bucho (Joaquim de Almeida), for an action-packed, bullet-riddled showdown. With the help of his best friend (Steve Buscemi) and a beautiful bookstore owner (Salma Hayek), the Mariachi tracks Bucho, takes on his army of desperados, and leaves a trail of blood of his own.
Plot Summary:
In the 1995 action-packed film Desperado, directed by Robert Rodriguez, Antonio Banderas stars as El Mariachi, a brooding musician turned gunslinger on a quest for vengeance. Haunted by the brutal murder of his lover and the shattering of his dreams, El Mariachi roams through a dusty Mexican town with his guitar case filled with weapons, hunting down the ruthless drug lord Bucho, played by Joaquim de Almeida, who is responsible for his suffering.
Along his journey, El Mariachi encounters Carolina, played by Salma Hayek, a beautiful and fearless bookstore owner who becomes his unexpected ally. Their chemistry ignites on screen as they join forces to bring down Bucho and his band of violent henchmen. As El Mariachi’s hunt intensifies, he faces waves of adversaries, engaging in thrilling gunfights, explosive standoffs, and daring escapes, all choreographed with Rodriguez’s signature blend of style and intensity.
Desperado is known for its memorable action sequences, including a dramatic shootout in a bar, the iconic moment where El Mariachi uses his guitar case as a deadly weapon, and a climactic showdown that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. The film is infused with dark humor, compelling characters, and a gritty yet vibrant aesthetic that has made it a beloved entry in the action genre.
With standout performances by Antonio Banderas and Salma Hayek, Desperado is a rollercoaster of action, passion, and revenge. Tune in to our podcast review as we revisit this 90s classic and discuss whether its stylish action, unforgettable characters, and high-octane drama still captivate today’s audiences.
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