Opened: February 3, 2006

Directed by: Joachim Rønning & Espen Sandberg

Starring: Salma Hayek, Penélope Cruz, Steve Zahn, Dwight Yoakam, Denis Arndt, Jose Maria Negri, Audra Blaser, Ismael “East” Carlo, Edgar Vivar & Sam Shepard

Despite the dynamic pairing of Salma Hayek & Penélope Cruz, Bandidas falls into tired tropes and a predictable storyline.

After attacks on both their fathers, Sara (Hayek) and María (Cruz) team up to rob from the banks that are being taken over by greedy American land baron Tyler Jackson (Dwight Yoakam). Though originally brought in to help Tyler, Quentin (Steve Zahn) joins the women in their heists.

Hayek and Cruz are phenomenal and get to show off both their comedic and action personas, while still retaining the sultriness that they’ve built careers on. It’s fantastic to see them in well-rounded roles where they have the power.

The screenplay isn’t revolutionary. You’ll know where the story is going and right when gags are about to happen, but that’s not to say it isn’t enjoyable.

Final say: The leads steal the show. ★★★☆☆