Movies Set in Mexico

By Robert Nickel


You have found yourself planning a trip to Mexico and as the departure date approaches you want to 'get in the mood' by watching a few films set in Mexico. Or perhaps you have just come back from a relaxing getaway in Ixtapa Mexico or a luxurious all-inclusive Cabo San Lucas resort and want to keep that sun-soaked Spanish colonial feeling. Well here a few films set in Mexico that may help out with your quest.

Nacho Libre - 2006

A fun film starring Jack Black, who is an unfulfilled monk working as a not-so-talented cook in a Mexican orphanage. He dreams of becoming a wrestler but struggles with the strict morals he has been taught all his life. When he realizes his dream, the slapstick antics ensue. A great family film, shot on location in the tourist development of Oaxaca.

Once Upon a Time In Mexico - 2003

This is the final film in Robert Ridriguez' Mexico Trilogy films. It stars Antonio Banderas, Johnny Depp and Salma Hayek and was filmed on location in the border-town of Coahuila. El Mariachi. The trilogy's hitman character, becomes involved in an international espionage plot which includes a mildly psychotic (and blind) CIA agent.

Frida - 2002

Mexico is home to many amazing artists, one of the peoples favorites is Frida Kahlo. Salma Hayek portrays the artist in this film telling the story of her life. Most of the film was shot in in Frida Kahlo's home, Casa Azul, located in Mexico City. Her home is now a celebrated museum. The film was a work of art in itself, earning six Academy nominations and winning two: Best Original Score and Best Makeup.

The Mexican - 2001

Starring Brad Pitt and Julia Roberts, this is the story of a bumbling mob lackey and his girlfriend as they try to save their relationship and bring a historic gun back to its owner. Tagged as a crime comedy, The Mexican was panned by the critics but fans loved it. It was filmed in the US, but clearly no one would know when viewing the film.

All The Pretty Horses - 2000

This is the story of two Texan cowboys who decide to head to Mexico in search of work and possibly a better life. They find favor on a horse ranch where the owner uses their ability to tame wild horses. Trouble starts when one of the cowboys falls in love with the rancher's daughter and the law gets involved. Starring Matt Damon and Penelope Cruz, this film was also shot in the US.

Old Gringo - 1989

Starring Gregory Peck, Jane Fonda and Jimmy Smits, the film is set during the Mexican Revolution of 1910. A school teacher travels to Mexico to teach children and finds herself kidnapped by General Tomas Arroyo. An aging American expat befriends the General and eventually an odd love-triangle develops. Filmed in the US, but once again the Mexican flavor is evident.

Fun in Alcapulco - 1963

Elvis Presley is most famous for his films made in California and Hawaii, but he did star in one film set in Mexico. Presley never actually traveled to Mexico in his lifetime, he shot his scenes in Hollywood. The story is predictable, handsome boy escapes to Mexico to avoid a failure or fear, meets lots of pretty girls, sings songs on the beach, faces fear, gets girls, all is well. If you plan to visit the site in which portions of this film were shot, go to the Villa Vera Hotel in Acapulco. It is still in existence and is where the cliff divers featured in the movie still practice their sport.

Riviera Maya all-inclusive resorts are a popular place for celebrities to vacation, especially when shooting films in the area. If you are planning a trip to Mexico, perhaps a room at one of the many Riviera Maya hotels will put you in a good position to enjoy the beaches, the historic landmarks and a few celebrity sightings! You never know.




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