Robert Rodriguez revisits his iconic El Mariachi universe in Once Upon a Time in Mexico, the explosive finale to his unlikely trilogy. Moving far beyond the shoestring budget of the original, this installment bursts onto the screen with a significantly larger scale, star-studded cast, and relentless action. For those seeking pure spectacle and high-octane thrills, Once Upon a Time in Mexico certainly delivers a visual feast. However, beneath the gloss and gunfire, the film grapples with a narrative that, while ambitious, ultimately feels convoluted and weakens the overall impact.
The plot, in essence, throws everything at the wall. El Mariachi, drawn back into the fray by the shadowy CIA agent Sands, is tasked with preventing a coup orchestrated by a Mexican general. This already complex mission becomes increasingly tangled with the involvement of a ruthless drug lord, Barillo, and a web of other shadowy figures with their own agendas. While the sheer volume of plot threads ensures there’s never a dull moment, it also becomes the film’s primary downfall. Following the intricate web of betrayals and shifting alliances becomes a chore, and any attempt to make sense of the grand scheme often feels futile. It’s clear early on that narrative coherence takes a backseat to stylized action sequences and visual flair.
This emphasis on style over substance extends to the film’s sprawling cast. While Antonio Banderas effortlessly embodies the cool demeanor of El Mariachi, and Johnny Depp steals every scene he’s in as the eccentric Sands, many other talented actors are unfortunately relegated to glorified cameos. Figures like Mickey Rourke, Willem Dafoe, Eva Mendes, and Danny Trejo, despite their considerable screen presence, are given surprisingly little to do, feeling more like window dressing than integral parts of the story. Even with flashbacks intended to add depth to Banderas’s character, they ultimately contribute to the film’s cluttered feel rather than providing genuine emotional resonance.
Despite its narrative shortcomings, Once Upon a Time in Mexico still offers a degree of entertainment, particularly for viewers who prioritize visual thrills above all else. The action is undeniably stylish and kinetic, and Depp’s darkly comedic performance is a genuine highlight. However, the film ultimately feels like less than the sum of its impressive parts. With its substantial budget, A-list cast, and constant explosions, it’s surprising how much the muddled and chaotic plot detracts from the overall enjoyment. Once Upon a Time in Mexico is ultimately a film that prioritizes dazzling style, leaving substance as a secondary, and largely forgotten, concern.
