“DESPERADO, the second installment in Robert Rodriguez’s Mexico Trilogy, holds a special place in my heart. As a kid in the 90s and early 2000s I was mesmerized by the blending of style and electrifying action of this film whenever it came on TV. In this classic revenge story, Rodriguez borrows from Spaghetti Western and Blaxploitation cinema of the 60s and 70s to create his own brand of narrative storytelling with touches of Noir and slapstick comedy. Antonio Banderas jumps out of the screen in a class of his own with pure charisma and style. Salma Hayek commands our attention with the perfect combination of vulnerability and fiery independence. The chemistry between the two of them is as explosive as the special effects in this film. Beyond its gripping action and Fabio-esque romance, what sets “Desperado” apart from a slew of macho action movies from the period is that this is a film that doesn’t take itself too seriously. A wild and entertaining ride from start to finish.

I am thrilled to share this cinematic gem with the audiences at IFC Center. Join us for a night of action, raw emotion and of course Mariachi music with DESPERADO”

Screening as part of our series Staff Picks Summer 2023-Winter 2024.