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The Mariachi Trilogy (1992 - 2003)

Updated: Jun 4

Introduction

The trilogy comprising "El Mariachi," "Desperado," and "Once Upon a Time in Mexico," directed by Robert Rodriguez, is a landmark in the action genre known for its stylistic approach and innovative storytelling. These films, starring a guitar-carrying protagonist known as El Mariachi, blend intense action sequences with a unique visual style and a compelling narrative. The trilogy is celebrated for its creative direction, memorable characters, and its significant influence on independent and action filmmaking.


 
 

1. El Mariachi (1992)

Rating: R | Duration: 1h 21min | Rating: 7/10 | Genres: #Action #Crime #Thriller

Parental Rating: R (Restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian)


STORYLINE:

"El Mariachi" introduces the story of a traveling mariachi musician who is mistaken for a murderous criminal and becomes entangled in a violent conflict. Shot on a shoestring budget, this film is renowned for its resourceful filmmaking and is considered a seminal work in the independent film movement.


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TRIVIA:

"El Mariachi" was made on a budget of just around $7,000, showcasing Rodriguez's ability to create a compelling feature film with limited resources.


 
 

2. Desperado (1995)

Rating: R | Duration: 1h 44min | Rating: 7/10 | Genres: #Action #Crime #Thriller

Parental Rating: R (Restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian)


STORYLINE:

"Desperado," the sequel to "El Mariachi," elevates the action and storytelling. Antonio Banderas takes over the lead role, bringing a new level of charisma and intensity. The film follows El Mariachi's quest for revenge against the drug lord responsible for his lover's death.


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TRIVIA:

"Desperado" marked Antonio Banderas's breakout role in American cinema and established his status as a leading action star.


 
 

3. Once Upon a Time in Mexico (2003)

Rating: R | Duration: 1h 42min | Rating: 6/10 | Genres: #Action #Crime #Thriller

Parental Rating: R (Restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian)


STORYLINE:

"Once Upon a Time in Mexico," the final installment of the trilogy, features El Mariachi being recruited by a CIA agent to prevent an assassination plot. The film, known for its larger cast and grander scale, concludes the Mariachi's saga with high-stakes action and drama.


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TRIVIA:

The film features a star-studded cast including Johnny Depp, Salma Hayek, and Willem Dafoe, adding to the trilogy's epic finale.


 
 

Additional Films in the Series

While these three films complete the story of El Mariachi, director Robert Rodriguez has continued to be a significant figure in action and independent filmmaking, with a style heavily influenced by these early works.


TRILOGY: COMMON HASHTAGS:

#RobertRodriguez - Director, Writer, Producer, Cinematography, Editor, Music (El Mariachi, Desperado, Once Upon a Time in Mexico)

#CarlosGallardo - As El Mariachi (El Mariachi)

#AntonioBanderas - As El Mariachi (Desperado, Once Upon a Time in Mexico)

#ConsueloGómez - As Domino (El Mariachi)

#SalmaHayek - As Carolina (Desperado, Once Upon a Time in Mexico)

#JoaquimDeAlmeida - As Bucho (Desperado)

#SteveBuscemi - As Buscemi (Desperado)

#CheechMarin - As Short Bartender (Desperado), Belini (Once Upon a Time in Mexico)

#JohnnyDepp - As Sands (Once Upon a Time in Mexico)

#MickeyRourke - As Billy (Once Upon a Time in Mexico)

#EvaMendes - As Ajedrez (Once Upon a Time in Mexico)

#WillemDafoe - As Barillo (Once Upon a Time in Mexico)

#ColumbiaPictures - Distributor (Desperado)

#DimensionFilms - Distributor (Once Upon a Time in Mexico)


 

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