Review of Get the Gringo (2012) by Roy Hector K — 26 Oct 2012

I didn't know anything about this film except that Mel Gibson starred in it, figuring and hoping that it would be a good one based on that. And it exceeded all of my expectations, this turning out to be one of the best films of 2012.

The film starts out strong with a car chase that ends up in Mexico, where 95% of the movie is set, and from there doesn't let up. It follows the experiences and adventures of Mel Gibson's character (whose real name was never really revealed in the movie and is only known as the "Driver"), in a supposedly fictional Mexican Prison, and his struggle to get out and get back the money he lost.

Characterization and dialogue are top notch, with the "Driver" coming up with funny and amusing narrative as he makes his way thru the Mexican prison life. The supporting cast is fantastic as well, and the movie has some very interesting and very nice plot twists.

If there is a flaw in the movie, it is probably how it showed prison life thru rose-colored glasses, never really revealing the violence and deprivation in such types of prison. Then again, that is in keeping with the film's light-hearted theme. After all the problems Mel has had with the media the last couple of years, and some flops here and there, it is good to see him back in great form.

Overall, a highly entertaining and engagine movie, gets a MUST-WATCH rating for me.