Machete

status: in theaters
rating: * * * * (4 out of 5 stars)

Robert Rodriguez's newest "Mexploitation" film fills the over-the-top, ridiculous nature of exploitation films to a "T". Danny Trejo in his first starring role shows that he can rip up the screen the way fans knew he could. The film is filled with graphic decapitations, a number of sex scenes (complete with porno music), and plenty of throwbacks to the grindhouse days.

Rounding out the cast is Steven Seagal, Jessica Alba, Michelle Rodriguez, Robert De Niro, Jeff Fahey and a number of faces Robert has used in the past. Together this group makes for an in-your-face, absurd ride into bloody cinema. I couldn't have been more pleased with Machete. Thanks to the fans of the trailer aired in Grindhouse, this film saw the light of day. It would've been unfortunate for this one to fall between the cracks. Robert keep 'em comin'!