“Machete Kills” celebrates a decade of mayhem.
It’s hard to believe that it’s been a decade since the release of “Machete Kills.” It is the explosive sequel to the 2010 cult classic “Machete.” Directed and written by the visionary Robert Rodriguez, this film brought back the indomitable Danny Trejo in the titular role. He is back dishing out justice and mayhem as only he can. “Machete Kills” was more than just a sequel. It was a wild, unforgettable ride that showcases Rodriguez’s unique and audacious storytelling.
“Machete Kills” continued the tale of the ex-Federale agent Machete Cortez (Danny Trejo). In this installment, he finds himself on a mission to stop an arms dealer, Luther Voz (Mel Gibson). The U.S. government taps Machete for this deadly task, setting the stage for a high-octane adventure that takes our hero on a rollercoaster ride through the heart of Mexico.
One of the defining characteristics of the “Machete” series is its unapologetic embrace of grindhouse cinema aesthetics. It pays homage to the B-movie classics with over-the-top action, sharp one-liners, and unforgettable characters. The film’s tone is a perfect balance of absurdity and satire, keeping the audience entertained from start to finish. Robert Rodriguez’s signature directorial style shines through in “Machete Kills.” He blends genres, fusing action, comedy, and exploitation of cinema elements. The result is a delightful, chaotic experience that pays tribute to the classic grindhouse films while feeling fresh and exciting.
The film also features a star-studded ensemble cast.
In addition to Trejo and Gibson, “Machete Kills” includes the talents of Michelle Rodriguez, Amber Heard, Lady Gaga, Sofia Vergara, and many others, each contributing their unique flair to the larger-than-life characters they portray. The “Machete” series originated from a fake trailer that was part of the “Grindhouse” double feature co-directed by Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino. “Machete” itself was a spin-off, and “Machete Kills” continued to embrace these roots playfully, cementing its place in cinematic history as a fun and imaginative extension of an already unconventional concept. Another fake trailer to get its feature film debut is Eli Roth’s Thanksgiving.
As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of “Machete Kills,” it’s clear that the film remains a cult favorite. Its dedication to paying homage to grindhouse cinema while infusing it with a fresh, modern twist is a testament to Robert Rodriguez’s visionary filmmaking. Danny Trejo’s iconic portrayal of Machete is one for the ages. It’s a film that reminds us that sometimes, a little over-the-top action and unapologetic fun are just what we need to escape from the everyday grind of life. Happy 10th anniversary, “Machete Kills”!
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Sean Tajipour
Sean Tajipour is the Founder and Editor of Nerdtropolis and the host of the Moviegoers Society Podcast. He is also a member of the Critics Choice Association. You can follow on Twitter and Instagram @Seantaj.