: Robert Rodriguez didn't just direct; he wrote, produced, edited, scored, and served as the cinematographer. This "total control" approach gives the film a frantic, rhythmic energy that feels distinct from standard Hollywood blockbusters.
: From Banderas and Hayek rappelling down a building while chained together to the iconic "Day of the Dead" finale, the movie is a love letter to the surrealist Westerns of Sergio Leone. Once Upon a Time in Mexico – Review (Spoiler Free) subtitle Once Upon a Time in Mexico
The story follows the legendary, gun-slinging troubadour (Antonio Banderas), who is living in seclusion after a personal tragedy involving his love, Carolina (Salma Hayek). He is lured back into the fray by Sands (Johnny Depp), a corrupt, Puerco Pibil-obsessed CIA agent who wants to "restore balance" to the country. : Robert Rodriguez didn't just direct; he wrote,
Sands’ plan is a dizzying carousel of double-crosses: he wants El Mariachi to kill General Marquez—the man responsible for El Mariachi’s grief—but only after Marquez has assassinated the President of Mexico for drug lord Armando Barillo (Willem Dafoe). If that sounds complicated, don't worry—most viewers find the plot secondary to the sheer visual spectacle. Why It Still Hits Today Once Upon a Time in Mexico – Review
: Long before he became Jack Sparrow, Depp’s performance here was hailed as a show-stealer. His character is eccentric, menacing, and sports a rotation of tacky tourist t-shirts (which Depp’s own sister reportedly sourced from Florida stalls).