Is El Ansia de matar Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1987)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Debuting in 1987, El Ansia de matar represents a sophisticated intersection of artistic ambition and genre-defining elements within the Action, Crime category. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into This is a true story. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Action, Crime are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "This is a true story. Kicho and Maria come to Mexico looking for a better life but Maria gets killed by the guerrilla before she gets to sign the papers at the border. Kicho promises himself he will get revenge one day. At the same time a family of four gets kidnapped during a hunting trip by the same "red beret" guy who commands the guerrilla and left the father thinking hes dead. He is an experienced hunter and with Kichos help, who knows the woods very well, track down the guerrilla to rescue the rest of the family."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. In El Ansia de matar, we see Mario Almada utilizing their established screen presence to carry the story forward. It is a solid, workmanlike performance that serves the director's vision without overshadowing the larger narrative goals.

The direction by Gilberto de Anda is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 82 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is El Ansia de matar truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Action, Crime, then this is a worthwhile watch if you have a specific interest in the themes or the performers involved.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 5.7/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, El Ansia de matar explores the dichotomy of strength and vulnerability. The 1987 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Gilberto de Anda respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, El Ansia de matar serves as a reliable piece of entertainment that will satisfy core fans while providing a solid entry point for new viewers. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Mario Almada or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, El Ansia de matar is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.