A Movie A Day Challenge #003: Get The Gringo

Get the Gringo (2012)
Director: Adrian Grunberg
Stars: Mel Gibson, Dean Norris and Peter Stormare

A career criminal is caught with two million stolen dollars in Mexico, he’s locked away in an Mexico prison where life for an white outsider would be tough, if not for young boy who shows him the ropes.

Old Mel has done terrific job of single handily taking his career from “A” list caliber to direct to DVD side liner. A lot of the criticism is not without merit. He caught a lot of flak when he made his Jesus Christ biopic that has been described as some of the best torture porn ever made. And soon after couldn’t keep himself out of the negative spotlight, by drunken anti-Semitic rants, and alleged physical abuse towards his girlfriend.

Even though all of though things are terrible, I still loved his past work, and didn’t think just because he was a screw up in his personal life it should be discounted. So like many Melvin fans I have been waiting for the triumphant return of Mel Gibson, the bad ass actor.

After watching the official trailer for “Get The Gringo,” I had high hopes that the Mel Gibson I use to know and love was back. Well I watched his new movie for the first time last night, and had a little time to reflect on it today. So was it everything I thought it would be?

Unfortunately it’s not as easy as yes or no. For starters the trailer and copy for the film sold it as an action comedy.  Although those elements are in the film, this film could also be described as a heist capper as well. The action scenes are a little sparse, but padded well with dramatic story telling that moves at a fast enough pace not to get boring.

The heist angle is fun, but a little predictable. A very few gore bits are spread throughout accompanying the shootout scenes that are cool to watch. And the cinematography and color grading capture the feel of the dirt prison setting well.

So, how did Melvin do? Pretty damn good in my humble opinion. He curses profusely, smokes cigarettes, and drinks beer throughout the whole movie. Not exactly the image conjured up when you think “Passion of the Christ.” He still seems to be in decent shape for his age, and I’m happy to report nailed his character fairly well.

Not a bad movie, but not one of Mel Gibson’s best either. Only time will tell if Melvin has another masterpiece up his sleeve. Until then I’m happy watching him in this low grade direct release film.