When writer/director Robert Rodriguez debuted is ultra low budget, but critically acclaimed 'El Mariachi' a few years ago, it was only a matter of time before Hollywood started throwing money at him. And one of his first projects with his new found "wealth" is the flashy, high energy sequel to 'El Mariachi', 'Desperado'. With more money, everything gets bigger. Bigger stars, bigger guns, bigger explosions and, thanks to actress Salma Hayek, bigger ti...well, you know.
'Desperado' is the story of a mysterious stranger, played by Antonio Banderos, seeking revenge for the murder of his girlfriend. And that's basically it. The guy just shows up in a town run by the drug kingpin responsible for his girlfriend's death with a guitar case full of guns and a real bad attitude. But, combine this simple premise with Rodriguez's now unmistakable directorial style, Banderos' attitude, Hayek's ti...well, you know, and throw in a sizzling score by Los Lobos and you come up with a visually stunning, over-the-top actioner that is terrific fun.
The only thing you need with a film like 'Desperado' is a top notch laser disc edition and Columbia Tristar has come up with one. Well, mostly. There is a bit of grain visible in a number of scenes and the image is a little softer than I like but, generally, this transfer is a good one. Colors are accurate and highly saturated. Detail is very good, despite the overall softness of the image. Contrast and brightness are very good, faithfully reproducing Rodriguez's highly stylized lighting. The 1.85:1 framing looks well balanced.
The soundtrack of 'Desperado' is, as you might expect, a real treat. Of course, there is the enhanced gunshots, whizzing bullets and crushing explosions. All done with great style and impact. But perhaps the most appealing element of this soundtrack is the terrific Los Lobos score. One cannot understate the positive effect the score has in this film. Los Lobos has perfectly captured the style and attitude of this film with their music and done it in such a way that many will remember the music long after the pictures.
'Desperado' runs 103 minutes and contains 35 chapters. The side break is very well placed. Following the movie is the theatrical trailer. And that's not all. Running commentary by Robert Rodriguez is found on analog right channel and the Spanish dialog soundtrack is on analog left. All for only $39.95. Now this is a deal.
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