And Starring Pancho Villa as Himself (2003)

And Starring Pancho Villa as Himself (2003) is a fascinating historical drama directed by Bruce Beresford. The film takes a creative approach to blending fact and fiction, centering on the real-life Mexican revolutionary leader Pancho Villa, played by Antonio Banderas. It explores the untold story of Villa's collaboration with Hollywood during the early 20th century, where his exploits were dramatized for American audiences, offering a unique perspective on his life and legacy.

Plot Overview

The film imagines Pancho Villa's life from a different angle—one that intertwines his revolutionary activities with his involvement in Hollywood. After Villa achieves some success as a military leader in the Mexican Revolution, he forms an unlikely partnership with American filmmaker Frank Thayer (played by Alan Arkin). The duo agrees to produce a film based on Villa’s life, with Villa himself starring as the leading man. The movie explores the behind-the-scenes process of making this film, as well as the political, cultural, and personal tensions that arise from this collaboration.

As Villa navigates the challenges of portraying himself on screen, his complex character is further revealed. The film delves into his contradictions—his violent revolutionary past and his desire for fame and recognition—and the tension between his role as a revolutionary leader and as an actor in a Hollywood production.

Characters and Performances

Antonio Banderas delivers a strong and charismatic performance as Pancho Villa. His portrayal of the revolutionary leader is layered, blending both the ruthless commander and the man seeking fame and recognition. Banderas captures Villa's complex personality, from his defiance and fierceness in battle to his vulnerabilities and moments of introspection. His performance helps bring depth to a character who is both legendary and controversial.

Alan Arkin’s performance as Frank Thayer provides a humorous and grounded contrast to Banderas's larger-than-life portrayal of Villa. Thayer, a fictionalized version of the real-life filmmakers who worked with Villa, is a pragmatic American caught in the crossfire between Hollywood ambitions and the reality of Villa’s leadership. Arkin adds a touch of dry humor and realism to the film, balancing the grandiosity of Villa’s character.

The supporting cast, including actresses like Patricia Velasquez, adds further richness to the film, with their characters providing a mix of romantic and personal stakes in Villa’s journey.

Historical and Cultural Themes

At its core, And Starring Pancho Villa as Himself is a meditation on the intersection of history, celebrity, and media. The film explores how Villa was not just a revolutionary leader but also a figure manipulated by the media for both political and entertainment purposes. His involvement with Hollywood highlights the early days of film production as a tool for shaping public perception, especially when it comes to real-world events and figures.

The film also addresses the tension between Villa’s ideals as a revolutionary and the commercialization of his image. As the film within the film progresses, Villa’s struggle with this tension becomes more apparent, leading to questions about identity, power, and exploitation.

Direction and Cinematography

Bruce Beresford’s direction ensures that the film is both historically engaging and visually appealing. The use of period-appropriate sets and costumes brings the 1910s Mexican Revolution era to life. The film’s cinematography effectively contrasts the glamour of Hollywood with the gritty realities of Villa’s world, highlighting the stark differences between the two. The visuals help reinforce the film's commentary on the contrast between the spectacle of cinema and the harshness of real life.

The narrative structure of the film is also notable, as it weaves between the making of the Hollywood film and the historical events of the Mexican Revolution, blending drama and documentary-style storytelling. This dual perspective allows the viewer to see both Villa’s personal journey and the broader political context in which he operated.

Conclusion

And Starring Pancho Villa as Himself (2003) is a thought-provoking and entertaining historical drama that offers a unique look at one of Mexico’s most iconic figures. With strong performances, particularly from Antonio Banderas, the film successfully blends Hollywood history with real-world politics, all while offering an engaging exploration of identity, fame, and the media’s influence on historical figures.

While the film may take some liberties with historical events, it provides an insightful and entertaining look at how Pancho Villa, a complex and controversial figure, navigated both the battlefield and the world of early cinema. For those interested in Mexican history, film history, or the complexities of public figures, this film offers a rich and engaging narrative.