Desperado

Directed by Robert Rodriguez, 1995
R; 104 minutes

“A bust-a-gut film experience that reveals Rodriguez as both a stylist versed in the mechanics of popular storytelling and a maverick whose ingenuity guides him along a singular path.” —Marjorie Baumgarten, Austin Chronicle

Former musician and gunslinger El Mariachi (Antonio Banderas) plunges headfirst into the dark border underworld when he follows a trail of blood to the last of the infamous Mexican drug lords, Bucho (Joaquim de Almeida), for an action-packed, bullet-riddled showdown. With the help of his friend, Campa (Carlos Gallardo) and a beautiful bookstore owner (Salma Hayek), El Mariachi tracks Bucho, takes on his army of desperados, and leaves a bloody trail of his own.

The “My Favorite Films” series features tales of romance, humor, suspense, satire, and heroism with films since 1945. These films may hold special memories for you—no matter how many times you see them, they continue to draw you in once more. While many of these films are available through streaming, it's always more fun to see them in the theatre.

This October, embark on a journey through films where passion, vengeance, and heroism paint vivid stories. Experience a guitar-strumming hero and a masked swordsman, brought to life by Antonio Banderas and Carlos Gallardo.

Make a day of it at the Modern and include extra time to visit the galleries. Enjoy lunch in Café Modern and then settle in for an afternoon screening, or plan for a coffee break afterwards with fellow film enthusiasts.

Screenings are at 2 pm most Wednesdays in the auditorium. Tickets are $5 (FREE for Modern members) and are available at the Museum’s admission desk or online here.