Where was Desperado filmed?
1995
City Locations
Ciudad Acuña (Mexico)
Location Types
Bar, House, Estate
Location Styles
Modern Building, Modern Car, Muscle, Spanish
About Desperado
Desperado is a fascinating movie that combines Western themes with a revenge storyline. Antonio Banderas starred in the 1995 film El Mariachi, directed by Robert Rodriguez.
El Mariachi, a former singer who now works as a gunman, returns to a tranquil border hamlet in Mexico after an extended absence. He has to go on a dangerous trip to meet the last well-known Mexican drug lord. But things from his past keep coming back to haunt him. His comeback isn't for a joyous reunion; it's for restitution. America's drug lord wants to get even with the person who killed his lover.
The story builds as El Mariachi discovers the border town's dark underworld. While he is trying to get justice, the only person who stands with him is Carolina, played by Salma Hayek. It is a simple story but has a lot of action and violence. El Mariachi's weaponized guitar case shows how he changed from a singer to a killer.
The mix of humor and action in Desperado is remarkable. Steve Buscemi portrays a witty character known as a "gringo" for his boisterous antics at bars, offering light relief between stressful and violent moments. Furthermore, the film is well-known for its stylized action sequences and cinematic style, which have gained it a devoted following among action fans.
Despite its simple plot, Desperado is an exciting journey filled with intense action, romance, and a dash of levity. It's a film about how far one man will go to achieve justice, set against the backdrop of a gritty Mexican border town.
Desperado Locations
Desperado, an action film directed by Robert Rodriguez and released in 1995, is well-known for its stunning locations, thrilling action sequences, and intriguing plot. Taking advantage of Mexico's beautiful cities and vibrant landscapes, the film was largely shot in Mexico.
Many scenes occurred in Ciudad Acuña and other places in Coahuila, Mexico. Because of its interesting past and lively culture, Coahuila is a great place to film. The visual draw of the movie comes from the beautiful scenery, busy streets, and the city's unique layout.
Right on the border with Texas is the busy city of Ciudad Acuña. The city is full of interesting and famous places, like the Plaza de Toros, home to a famous bullring, and the Plaza Benjamín Canales, a lovely central area with shops and restaurants.
Fans of the movie Desperado or people who want to see the beauty and charm of Mexico for themselves should take a trip to the places where the movie was filmed. From the busy streets of Ciudad Acuña to the more rural parts of Coahuila, these places give you a sense of the setting that was so important to making Desperado come to life.
Fun Fact
Desperado is the second installment in Robert Rodriguez's trilogy, also known as the "Mexico Trilogy" or "Mariachi Trilogy." The first film was "El Mariachi" (1992), and the third was "Once Upon a Time in Mexico" (2003).
Buscemi tells the story scene in Desperado
Ciudad Acuña, Coahuíla, Mexico
In a bar in Mexico, an American named Buscemi (Steve Buscemi) describes a brutal massacre at another bar involving a Mexican man with guns hidden in a guitar case. The atmosphere changes when "Bucho" (Joaquim de Almeida) is mentioned. Meanwhile, El Mariachi (Antonio Banderas) dreams of his past encounter with Mauricio (Peter Marquardt), Bucho's accomplice, who caused harm to his loved one and his left hand. Buscemi motivates El Mariachi to continue his mission against Bucho.
Ciudad Acuña, a lively city in Coahuila, Mexico, is home to approximately 201,778 residents as of 2017, ranking as the fourth-largest city in the state. Situated along the Rio Grande River, it is a border city with the United States. Known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and attractions like Parque Viveros and Parque Xochipilli II, Ciudad Acuña offers unique accommodations, making it a captivating destination for visitors.
Ciudad Acuña is accessible via Del Río, Texas, where travelers can cross the International Bridge into Mexico. From Del Río, it's a short drive or walk across the border. Direct flights to Del Río International Airport are available, followed by a taxi or rental car to the bridge.
Conclusion
Robert Rodriguez's 1995 action thriller Desperado is a timeless masterpiece that brilliantly portrays the spirit and energy of Mexico. Most filming occurred in Ciudad Acuña, a lively city in Coahuila known for its abundant cultural heritage and historical significance. The city's distinctive architecture, lively streets, and picturesque surroundings enhance the film's aesthetic value.
The film also took advantage of other Mexican locales, showcasing the country's stunning landscapes and vibrant cities. Desperado offers depth and realism to the drama by depicting Mexico's various surroundings, from the busy streets of Mexico City to the peaceful peacefulness of Cabo San Lucas.