Opened: August 25, 1995

Directed by: Robert Rodriguez

Starring: Antonio Banderas, Joaquim de Almeida, Salma Hayek, Steve Buscemi, Cheech Marin, Quentin Tarantino, Carlos Larriva, Angel Aviles, Danny Trejo, Abraham Verduzco, Carlos Gallardo, Albert Michel Jr., David Alvarado, Fernando Torres, Angela Lanza, Peter Marquardt & Consuela Gómez

With a straightforward storyline and some great standoffs, Desperado is an action Western that knows how to have fun.

El Mariachi (Antonio Banderas) is hunting down a drug lord named Bucho (Joaquim de Almeida) who’s responsible for the death of his lover. El Mariachi encounters and protects Carolina (Salma Hayek), who in turn stitches up his wounds and helps him in his quest.

Writer-director Robert Rodriguez handles the intensity of the film with the romance between El Mariachi and Carolina perfectly while also making room for lighter, comical moments. Banderas and Hayek have incredible passion and make their love scene fiery. Their strength in the gun-filled moments make their characters instantly memorable.

The film moves fast without any energy-draining moments, so you get to embrace the excitement the whole way through.

Final say: Not desperate, just lively. ★★★★★