In Robert Rodriguez's second sequel to El Mariachi, "a sprawling narrative is rammed into 102 incoherent minutes." The action sequences are, as always, good, but how the plot has become so unfocused is answered by Rodriguez's honest approach to the excellent DVD release.

Director's Confessional

Throughout the extra features, Rodriguez talks of how he was able finally to realize sequences that were to have been in other movies, and how cast members like Johnny Depp and Mickey Rourke brought their own improvisations to the script. Rodriguez then takes us on a tour of his house, where he can swivel in his chair between composing the music, to editing the film, to creating the special effects. His approach is entirely organic, but while we can argue critically that the end result has not worked due to his penchant for improvising on the spot, seeing him at work makes for a great DVD.

Always Buy Rodriguez

Rodriguez is now starting to develop a pattern for the DVD releases of his films. Aside from the fact that he seems unable to make boring featurettes, he has introduced staples like his Ten Minute Flick School. In the time stated, he breaks down his lengthy movie, demonstrating how to keep budgets ultra-tight, how basic his effects are, and how problems during the shoot are merrily pushed aside to keep the production on schedule. Rodriguez is always keen to show how anyone can make a film, and his enthusiasm and belief that low-budget filmmaking buys you more freedom is infectious.

High Definition

George Lucas talking about high definition (HD) filming is uninspiring despite his belief in the system as the format in which all movies should be made. Yet, he got Rodriguez hooked onto the format, and when he talks about it, it's suddenly fascinating. The attitude of Rodriguez is to push HD to the limits, and here Robert comes up with many compelling reasons as to why the format is the future. If that all sounds a little heavy, bear in mind that Rodriguez also shows us how to make convincing eye sockets and slow roasted pork, so don't fear getting bored. This is a DVD of solid entertainment as far as the extra features are concerned.

EXTRA FEATURES

This DVD was reviewed on a JVC XV-N5 DVD player.