Opening 5 Apr 2018
Directed by:
Nash Edgerton
Writing credits:
Anthony Tambakis, Matthew Stone
Principal actors:
Joel Edgerton, Charlize Theron, David Oyelowo, Thandie Newton, Bashir Salahuddin
Harold’s life is great! A good job with an understanding boss, Richard (Joel Edgerton), and a beautiful wife, Bonnie (Thandie Newton); his accountant’s opinion is otherwise. Unexpectedly, Richard and his partner Elaine (Charlize Theron) accompany Harold to Mexico for routine business; there, Harold realizes all is not as it appears on the surface. Concurrently, Miles (Harry Treadaway) takes Sunny (Amanda Seyfried) on a jaunt to Mexico, albeit neglecting to mention his true mission. Meanwhile, Sanchez’s (Hernán Mendoza) biggest client (Carlos Corona) is not happy to hear about future deliveries, vis-à-vis Richard’s mandate, and shows it. This alongside a couple hostelry brothers (Diego Cataño, Rodrigo Corea) getting caught up in the game, some underhanded dealings taking place, and Vega (Hector Kotsifakis) searching for Harold. There is a setback in Rich and Elaine’s partnership, so Rich phones Mitch (Sharlto Copley) asking his brother for a favor. All the forces from north of the border collide south of the border for a tumultuous excursion.
Considering the many sub-plots, Nash Edgerton’s direction is worthy, with three skillful editors keeping the many plotlines tangle-free: Luke Doolan, David Rennie, and Tatiana S. Riegel. Eduard Grau’s cinematography enhances the various locations’ ambiance, just as Christophe Beck’s sassy, fun music is most enjoyable. The international cast is obviously having fun, especially Charlize Thereon – nice to see her onscreen again. Once all the players and places are exposed, the pace pounds forward whereby no good turn goes unrewarded. There are gorillas and bears, and then there are second chances. Have some fun and go see Gringo. (Marinell Haegelin)
