Mexican cinema has blossomed over the decades, offering a rich tapestry of stories that range from heartwarming comedies to poignant dramas and everything in between. If you’re looking to explore films that offer a window into Mexican culture, history, and the vibrant spirit of its people, you’ve come to the right place. While I might not be a film scholar with years of formal training, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for Mexican Movies and want to share some standout recommendations, spanning from the Golden Age classics to contemporary masterpieces available for streaming and rental right now.
Explore the Best Mexican Films Across Eras
Whether you’re a seasoned cinephile or just beginning to delve into international cinema, Mexican movies offer something for everyone. From the iconic figures of the Golden Age to the groundbreaking filmmakers of today, the breadth and depth of Mexican storytelling on film is truly remarkable.
To help you navigate this exciting cinematic landscape, we’ve categorized our recommendations by era. Feel free to jump to a specific period that piques your interest, or scroll through the entire list to discover the best Mexican films to watch right now.
GOLDEN AGE (~1930s-1960s) | 1960s ONWARDS | 2000s ONWARDS
A Note on Exploration: Initially, this guide focused primarily on modern Mexican movies from the 2000s onwards. However, inspired by the growing interest in classic cinema and the foundational works of Mexican filmmaking, we’ve expanded this list to include essential films from the Golden Age and late 20th century. Get ready to embark on a cinematic journey through time!
Golden Age of Mexican Cinema (~1930s-1960s): The Classics
The Golden Age, or “Época de Oro,” represents the undisputed zenith of Mexican cinema. Spanning approximately three decades, this era saw the rise of legendary stars like Pedro Infante, Jorge Negrete, María Félix, Dolores del Río, Cantinflas, and Tin Tan. These actors became household names across Latin America, and their films continue to be cherished for their melodrama, musicality, and iconic portrayals of Mexican identity.
While I’ll be honest and admit I haven’t personally seen every film from this era, the enduring legacy and critical acclaim of these movies speak volumes. Consider this section your starting point for understanding the foundation of Mexican movie history.
Vámonos con Pancho Villa (1936): The Revolution on Film
Often credited as the film that launched the Golden Age, Vámonos con Pancho Villa (Let’s Go With Pancho Villa) is a historical drama that offers a nuanced, less glorified view of the iconic Mexican Revolution hero, Pancho Villa. Instead of pure adulation, the film explores the complexities of revolution and its impact on ordinary people.
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Pancho Villa in Vámonos con Pancho Villa mexican movie
Doña Bárbara (1943): María Félix, the Unforgettable Diva
Starring the legendary María Félix, Doña Bárbara is a classic melodrama. Félix embodies Bárbara, a powerful and wealthy landowner whose life takes a dramatic turn when she falls for a man already in love with another woman. Expect a passionate love triangle set against the backdrop of the Venezuelan landscape, showcasing Félix’s captivating screen presence. For more of María Félix’s magnetic performances, explore Enamorada and Doña Diabla.
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María Candelaria (1943): Dolores del Río’s Indigenous Portrait
Dolores del Río, another icon of the Golden Age, stars in María Candelaria. The film tells the poignant story of María Candelaria, an indigenous woman from Xochimilco, whose love for Lorenzo Rafael is challenged by the prejudice and societal barriers of their community. This film is notable for its sensitive portrayal of indigenous life and the social issues of the time.
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Nosotros los Pobres (1948): Pedro Infante’s Heartfelt Performance
Pedro Infante, a beloved figure in Mexican cinema, stars in Nosotros los Pobres (We the Poor). He plays Pepe el Toro, a humble carpenter in Mexico City who faces false accusations of robbery, leading to a series of hardships for him and his family. This film is known for its memorable characters, emotional depth, and ultimately uplifting resolution, reflecting the resilience of the working class.
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Los Olvidados (1950): Buñuel’s Bleak Masterpiece
Directed by the acclaimed Luis Buñuel, Los Olvidados (The Forgotten) is a significant work of Mexican cinema, though admittedly, I haven’t yet had the chance to watch it. This film offers a stark and unflinching look at poverty and juvenile delinquency in Mexico City. While controversial for its raw depiction of social issues (some critics labeled it “poverty porn”), it’s considered a powerful and era-defining film. With a concise runtime of 75 minutes, it might be time for me to finally experience this classic.
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Macario (1960): A Day of the Dead Fantasy
Macario is a fantasy-drama set during Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead), predating the themes later popularized by Coco. The story follows Macario, a poor woodcutter who, in a moment of desperation, makes a pact with Death. Filmed in the picturesque town of Taxco, Macario made history as the first Mexican movie to be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. If you appreciate films that blend fantasy with cultural traditions, this is a must-see.
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Explore Taxco: Intrigued by the filming location of Macario? Consider a day trip to the beautiful silver city: Taxco, Guerrero: A Sterling (Silver) Day Trip from Mexico City
Mexican Movies: 1960s Onwards – Transition and New Voices
Moving beyond the Golden Age, Mexican cinema entered a period of transition, exploring new themes and styles while still retaining its unique cultural voice. This era paved the way for the contemporary wave of Mexican filmmakers who have garnered international acclaim.
El Padrecito (1964): Cantinflas’ Moral Comedy
Cantinflas, a comedic icon from the Golden Age, continued his cinematic career with films like El Padrecito (The Little Priest). In this movie, he plays Padre Sebastián, a priest whose actions often carry a strong moral message, typical of Cantinflas’s work. While his style may not resonate with everyone (and personally, I admit I don’t fully “get” Cantinflas’s humor), his impact on Mexican cinema is undeniable.
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El Castillo de la Pureza (1972): A Dark Tale Based on Reality
El Castillo de la Pureza (The Castle of Purity) is a film recommended by a friend, and it delves into a disturbing true story from 1950s Mexico City. The plot centers on a man who confines his wife and children to their home for 18 years. Originally intended to star Dolores del Río, this film offers a chilling glimpse into a real-life case of extreme domestic confinement.
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Santa Sangre (1989): Jodorowsky’s Surreal Vision
After publishing the initial list, several readers suggested including Santa Sangre. Directed by Alejandro Jodorowsky, this film is a surrealist and mystical experience that definitely isn’t for everyone. If you enjoy films that push boundaries and explore philosophical themes through bizarre and dreamlike imagery, Santa Sangre might be for you. However, be prepared for a visually intense and unconventional cinematic journey.
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Sólo con Tu Pareja (1991): Alfonso Cuarón’s Debut Humor
Sólo con tu Pareja (Only With Your Partner), also known as Love in the Time of Hysteria, marks the feature film directorial debut of Alfonso Cuarón, known for Roma and Gravity. This dark comedy revolves around a notorious womanizer who mistakenly believes he has contracted AIDS. Despite the serious premise, the film manages to be funny, sexy, and morbid, showcasing Cuarón’s early talent for blending genres and tones, much like his later work, Y Tu Mamá También.
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El Callejón de los Milagros (1995): Interwoven Stories of Mexico City
El Callejón de los Milagros (Midaq Alley) is an adaptation of an Egyptian novel, cleverly transposed to the vibrant historic center of Mexico City. Similar in narrative structure to Amores Perros, the film tells interweaving stories of neighbors living in a Mexico City alleyway, exploring their lives and relationships from multiple perspectives. Salma Hayek stars in this ensemble drama, offering a glimpse into the everyday lives of urban Mexicans.
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Discover Mexico City’s Heart: Explore the setting of El Callejón de los Milagros and plan your visit: A Guide to Mexico City’s Historic Center
Contemporary Mexican Movies: 2000s and Beyond – A New Golden Age?
The 21st century has witnessed a remarkable resurgence in Mexican cinema, often hailed as a new Golden Age. Talented directors, actors, and writers have emerged, creating films that resonate both domestically and internationally. This period is marked by diverse genres, bold storytelling, and a willingness to tackle complex social and political issues. For many, this era is synonymous with the rise of actor Gael García Bernal, a prominent figure in many of these contemporary classics.
Amores Perros (2000): A Landmark of Modern Mexican Cinema
Amores Perros (Love’s a Bitch) is not just one of my favorite Mexican films, but one of my all-time favorite movies, period. This groundbreaking film catapulted Gael García Bernal to international fame and marked the beginning of director Alejandro González Iñárritu’s “Trilogy of Death.” Structured in three interconnected stories that converge after a car accident, Amores Perros is a powerful drama exploring class, love, and fate in Mexico City. While it’s a longer film (2 hours 34 minutes), the captivating portrayal of Mexico City, the incredible soundtrack (listen to “Lucha de Gigantes”!), and Bernal’s performance make it an unforgettable cinematic experience.
CURRENTLY NOT STREAMING LEGALLY
Iñárritu’s Trilogy: Explore the other films in Alejandro González Iñárritu’s acclaimed “Trilogy of Death”: 21 Grams and Babel.
Y Tu Mamá También (2001): Coming-of-Age Road Trip
Y Tu Mamá También (And Your Mother Too) is another iconic Mexican film from the early 2000s, directed by Alfonso Cuarón (pre-Roma). This coming-of-age road trip movie, set in Oaxaca, follows two teenage boys and an older woman on a journey of self-discovery, friendship, and burgeoning sexuality. The film is known for its frankness, humor, and poignant exploration of youth and transition.
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Amarte Duele (2002): Teen Drama with a Social Edge
Amarte Duele (Love Hurts) is a teen romantic drama that has achieved cult classic status, partly due to the Ximena Sariñana meme “así se las dice ma, nacos.” The film, loosely based on Romeo and Juliet, explores class differences and prejudice in Mexico City through the love story of Renata and Ulises, who come from different social strata. While criticized for its portrayal of classism, Amarte Duele remains a popular and impactful teen film.
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Rudo y Cursi (2008): Gael and Diego Reunite for Laughs
Rudo y Cursi (Rough and Corny) brings together Gael García Bernal and Diego Luna once again in a comedic film about two banana-farming brothers with dreams of soccer stardom. This lighthearted and often ridiculous movie is perfect for when you need a good laugh. It also features a truly unforgettable scene of Gael García Bernal singing “Quiero que me quieras” in front of a green screen – a cinematic moment that must be seen to be believed!
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Nosotros, Los Nobles (2013): A Comedy of Wealth and Responsibility
Directed by Gary Alazraki, known for Club de Cuervos, Nosotros, Los Nobles (We Are the Nobles) is a box-office hit in Mexico. Starring Luis Gerardo Méndez and Karla Souza as spoiled siblings from a wealthy family, the film follows their journey as their patriarch father stages a financial crisis to teach them about responsibility and hard work. Expect comedic hijinks and social commentary in this popular Mexican comedy.
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Las Elegidas (2014): A Powerful Film on Human Trafficking
Las Elegidas (The Chosen Ones) is a film I highly recommend, though its subject matter is undeniably heavy. Set in Tijuana, the film tackles the difficult topic of human trafficking through the story of teenage Sofía, who is forced into prostitution by her boyfriend’s family. Despite the dark themes, Las Elegidas is a compelling and important film, with a standout performance by Nancy Talamantes as Sofía.
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Coco (2017): Disney-Pixar’s Day of the Dead Celebration
Coco is a film that likely needs no introduction. This beloved Disney-Pixar animation beautifully captures the spirit of Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead). While it takes some creative liberties with cultural accuracy, Coco is a joyful and visually stunning film that has introduced the Day of the Dead traditions to a global audience.
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Celebrate Día de Muertos: Learn more about the traditions and celebrations depicted in Coco: Día de Muertos: How + Where to Celebrate Day of the Dead in Mexico
Roma (2018): Cuarón’s Oscar-Winning Masterpiece
Roma is arguably the Mexican film of recent years, garnering international acclaim and numerous awards, including Oscars. Directed by Alfonso Cuarón, this semi-autobiographical film is set in 1970s Mexico City and tells the story of Cleo, a domestic worker, and the family she works for. Shot in stunning black and white, Roma is an atmospheric and deeply personal film that demands your full attention and appreciation for its artistry. Yalitza Aparicio’s performance as Cleo is particularly noteworthy.
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La Negrada (2018): Spotlighting Afro-Mexican Identity
La Negrada (Black Mexicans) is a groundbreaking film with a cast entirely composed of Afro-descendant Mexicans from often-overlooked communities in Mexico. None of the actors had formal acting experience, adding to the film’s authenticity. La Negrada offers a vital and rarely seen perspective on Afro-Mexican identity and challenges the common misconception that Mexico is solely a mestizo nation.
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Explore Afro-Mexican History: Learn more about the Afro-Mexican community and their rich history: Afro-Mexicans (Re)exist: A Brief History of Afromexicanidad
Ya No Estoy Aquí (2019): Kolombia Culture and Migration
Ya No Estoy Aquí (I’m No Longer Here) takes viewers into the unique world of Kolombia culture in Northern Mexico. The film follows Ulises, a young man from Monterrey who is forced to flee to New York due to gang violence. The story moves between past and present, accompanied by a vibrant cumbia soundtrack and captivating cinematography. Ya No Estoy Aquí offers a poignant look at cultural identity, displacement, and the search for belonging.
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Discover Monterrey: Learn more about the Northern Mexican city featured in Ya No Estoy Aquí: Monterrey
Bonus Mexican Movie Recommendations: Further Exploration
If you’re still looking for more Mexican movie recommendations, here are a few additional titles to consider. This list includes a mix of films I’ve seen and those still on my watchlist!
7:19 LA HORA DEL TEMBLOR: A film depicting the aftermath of the devastating 1985 Mexico City earthquake. Currently on Netflix Mexico.
LA DICTADURA PERFECTA: A political satire from 2014, critiquing the Enrique Peña Nieto government. Available on Netflix Mexico.
LA LEY DE HERODES: A black comedy-satire about political corruption in Mexico (released in 1999).
FRIDA: Salma Hayek’s portrayal of the iconic Mexican artist Frida Kahlo.
SIN NOMBRE: A Honduran girl’s journey across Mexico to the US border alongside a boy entangled in Mexican gang life.
CHICUAROTES: Directed by Gael García Bernal, this film follows two boys from Xochimilco who escalate from bus clowns to robbery. Streaming on Netflix Mexico.
Safety in Mexico: Reflecting on themes in Chicuarotes, here’s some advice on safety: I Got Mugged in Mexico (+ What To Do If It Happens To You)
MATANDO CABOS: An action-comedy involving two friends trying to ensure their boss’s safety.
GÜEROS: Set during a UNAM student strike in the late 1990s, a black and white film that is essentially a love story starring Tenoch Huerta.
EL CRIMEN DEL PADRE AMARO: A controversial film starring Gael García Bernal as a priest facing temptation.
EL LABERINTO DEL FAUNO (Pan’s Labyrinth): While set in Spain, this Guillermo del Toro masterpiece deserves mention due to the director’s Mexican heritage. Also consider del Toro’s Biutiful and The Shape of Water.
VUELVEN (Tigers Are Not Afraid): A horror-fantasy film recommended by readers, known for its chilling atmosphere.
SONORA: A Western-style film set in the Sonoran Desert in the 1930s, starring Joaquín Cosío.
ELVIRA, TE DARÍA MI VIDA PERO LA ESTOY USANDO: A woman investigates after her partner disappears. Features music by Julieta Venegas.
What are your favorite Mexican movies? Do you agree with these recommendations? Let us know in the comments below!
