Review of Machete (2010) by Danny R — 15 Dec 2011

A thrilling action-packed grindhouse film that is brutal, funny and enormously entertaining. Concerning a tough as hell ex-federale whose family is slaughtered by an evil crime lord, years later "Machete" his nickname because of the giant blade he carries is hired and than betrayed by an sinister organization which makes him go on a limb-hacking, head lopping, murderous rampage against his former boss.

The role of "Machete" is a real showcase for the great Mexican character actor Danny Trejo in his first leading role, Trejo who was an ex-con and ex-boxer in real life has a truly imposing presence with those burning eyes and that craggy, weather-beaten face that looks like it is made of solid stone, he delivers a brutally efficient performance as the unstoppable anti-hero.

Fine direction by Robert Rodriguez and Ethan Maniquis his editor. The supporting cast all deliver amusing performances they include Cheech Marin, Robert De Niro, Don Johnson, Steven Seagal, Jeff Fahey, Michelle Rodriguez and Lindsay Lohan, Robert Rodriquez has done a tremendous job in capturing the feel of the early 70s exploitation films with great force, the extreme violence is overwhelming and the film is unapologetically over the top, but thats what makes it good bloody, nasty fun and a hell of an adrenaline rush! Highly Recommended.