Robert Rodriguez once again tries to out-pulp his long term collaborator Quentin Tarantino in yet another remake of El Mariachi. He makes no bones as to his intentions, the opening credit proclaiming it "A Robert Rodriguez flick" rather than "film", and the result is a slickly entertaining but rather vacuous affair. Desperado had just the right mix of drama, humour and action but this sequel is rather lacking in the dramatic momentum that involves the audience. I think the problem is that Banderas' character is easily the least interesting of the ensemble cast; he does little more than mope around and shoot stuff in increasingly over the top set pieces to the point where it starts to feel like a hispanic Jackie Chan movie without the jokes. Far more interesting is Johnny Depp's amoral and smart-mouthed CIA agent, complete with tourist's wardrobe, fake arm and collection of comedy moustaches; I couldn't help thinking that it would've been a much better film if HE were the central character. But as it is, it's a fun slice of popcorn entertainment, and with Depp, Banderas, Salma Hayek (who is otherwise wasted) and Eva Mendes in the mix, there's plenty of eye candy for both sexes.

This movie proves that Robert Rodrigeuz is capable of making great movies. This movie has fantastic acting, some funny moments, and a coll but unrealistic plot. The main reason I love this movie is it has my all time favorite movie quote: "El, you really must try this because it's puerco pibil. It's a slow-roasted pork, nothing fancy. It just happens to be my favorite, and I order it with a tequila and lime in every dive I go to in this country. And honestly, that is the best it's ever been anywhere. In fact, it's too good. It's so good that when I'm finished, I'll pay my check, walk straight into the kitchen and shoot the cook. Because that's what I do. I restore the balance to this country. And that is what I would like from you right now. Help keep the balance by pulling the trigger." The only bad I can think of is that sometimes all the violence is kind of unnecesary. People shoot each other for practically no reason at all sometimes. In the real world, this amount of violence would never happen, even in a poor, crime filled area. The acting is amazing. Banderas was pretty good, but what really makes this movie? Johnny Depp as Agent Sands. It is some of the best acting I've ever seen. It's realistic, stylish and sometimes humorous or dark. Think Bullseye only not as evil. The fight scenes in this movie have more choreography then some of the best superhero films. It's like a bit of a more intelligent Tom and Jerry, in a good way. The church battle in particular was amazing. Overrall, this is an amazing movie. For anyone who loves a smart but wacky action movie, I suggest Once Upon A Time In Mexico today.