35/50x2: Machete

This was one of those films that the idea of it really had me interested, but I was a bit put off by the horrible violence that may be portrayed. Luckily, I got past that and decided to watch it anyway - and the violence was much more cartoony than horrible.

So, Machete was originally created as a fake trailer in front of the Grindhouse double feature. It was so popular that Robert Rodriguez decided to create a full-length film from it.

So, Machete (Danny Trejo) is a Federale. He is on his way to rescue a kidnapped girl when he is betrayed by his own chief and handed over to a drug-lord, Rogelio Torrez (Steven Seagal). Torrez kills Machete's wife and daughter in front of him and then leaves him for dead.

Years later, a man that looks like Machete shows up in Texas looking for odd jobs. He winds up being hired by Michael Booth (Jeff Fahey) to kill Senator McLaughlin (Robert De Niro), who is re-running for his senate position and is sending hundreds of illegal immigrants out of the country.

But, as Machete lines up the shot he realizes he is being setup, Booth works for McLaughlin and this was a way to gain sympathy votes and help McLaughlin's border campaign. Machete ends up being shot in the shoulder, but is able to escape.

Sartana Rivera (Jessica Alba) is an agent brought in to track down and bring in Machete. But, she along with Luz (Michelle Rodriguez) help Machete in taking revenge against both Booth and McLaughlin. Not to mention Machete's priest brother, Padre (Cheech Marin) and Booth's daughter out for revenge of her own, April (Lindsay Lohan).

I have to admit this was a pretty fun romp to watch. Sure, it was way over the top, but the filmmakers knew that and did it on purpose. Everyone working on this film was obviously in on this being so over the top - and it worked tremendously. It was really entertaining throughout.

Grade:

Tuesday's With Movies: 1/11/11

OK, since I missed last week's Tuesday's With Movies and this week only has a few I have decided to include last week's films as well. Enjoy!

1/11/11
The Social Network: As I explained in my rant yesterday this is one of those magical films that will not be coming to me for at least another month. However, it is released country wide today on DVD and it is one of the films I really want to see. I have heard great things all around about this film - from the film itself to the actors in the film. So, as soon as I get the chance I will be checking this one out.




Piranha 3D: As I have stated in the past I am definitely not a horror movie guy. I can get by on some great thrillers, but gore just is way over the top in my book. I don't see the necessity of seeing people killed and tortured. So, I will probably be skipping this one.






Alpha & Omega: One I had not heard of until I was looking for movies to add to my Netflix queue. I am sure it isn't a great flick, but it's a cartoon and I am sure my 4-year old will love it. So, I will probably be checking it out sometime in the near future.







1/4/11
Machete: OK, I am not sure the extent of what is shown in this film, but I am pretty interested in seeing this despite what I said in my Piranha 3D post. I have a feeling there will be a little gore in this film, but I am not sure. Either way, I am intrigued and I will definitely see it - once Netflix allows me.





Dinner for Schmucks: Already have seen it and I will have a small review up by the end of the week in my Quick Shots as I attempt to get caught up quickly.









Camille/Howl: Two films that I have never heard of, but star James Franco. Doubt I will be checking them out until I know a little more about them.


Case 39/The Last Exorcism: Two films that have horror written all over them that I will not be checking out.