Once Upon a Time in Mexico is a 2003 American neo-Western action film written, directed, and produced by Robert Rodriguez.
It is the third installment in Rodriguez's "Mexico Trilogy," following El Mariachi (1992) and Desperado (1995). The film stars Antonio Banderas as the titular mariachi, who is drawn into a complex plot involving the CIA, a corrupt general, and a personal vendetta. The ensemble cast includes Johnny Depp, Salma Hayek, Mickey Rourke, Eva Mendes, and Willem Dafoe.
The plot centers around the mariachi, who is now a hardened hitman. He is recruited by CIA agent Sheldon Sands, played by Johnny Depp, to assassinate a corrupt general named Marquez, portrayed by Joaquim de Almeida. Marquez is responsible for the death of the mariachi's wife, Carolina (Salma Hayek). As the story unfolds, the mariachi's quest for revenge intertwines with Sands' mission, leading to a series of violent confrontations and unexpected alliances. The film is characterized by its stylistic action sequences, dark humor, and a vibrant visual aesthetic that pays homage to classic spaghetti westerns.
Rodriguez produced Once Upon a Time in Mexico on a budget of approximately $29 million. The film showcases his trademark style, featuring kinetic action, vivid colors, and a blend of genres. Rodriguez served as the cinematographer, editor, and composer, demonstrating his multifaceted approach to filmmaking. The film's action sequences are notable for their choreography and visual flair, contributing to the overall atmosphere of the narrative.
Upon its release, Once Upon a Time in Mexico received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised Johnny Depp's eccentric performance as Agent Sands, others criticized the film for its convoluted plot and the reduction of the mariachi character to a supporting role. The film holds a 66% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a score of 56 on Metacritic. Despite the mixed reception, it was a commercial success, grossing over $98 million worldwide.
The film concluded Rodriguez's "Mexico Trilogy," which began with the low-budget independent film El Mariachi. The trilogy significantly influenced independent cinema and showcased Rodriguez's innovative production techniques. Once Upon a Time in Mexico also featured early roles for several actors who would later achieve fame, including Eva Mendes and Salma Hayek. Overall, the film stands as a stylish and entertaining conclusion to the mariachi saga, reflecting Rodriguez's unique vision and contributions to the action genre.