Cartel

Author(s): Adam
Location: TX

"Cartel"

Directed by PHILIP NOYCE
Written by JOSHUA MARSTON
Produced by MACE NEUFELD
Briefly based on the true life story of Pablo Escobar
Featuring new original songs by JUANES & MANU CHAO

Main Cast
MICHAEL PENA as Juan Rosolindo
ANTONIO BANDERAS as Marco Ayanda
JOHN LEGUIZAMO as Francisco "Fran" Rosolindo
MIA MAESTRO as Vivian Rosolindo
RUBEN BLADES as Ricardo Rosolindo
Also featuring in side roles... JOHN ORTIZ, JORDI MOLLA, ROSIE PEREZ, CARLOS GALLARDO, FREDDY RODRIGUEZ

Tagline: "No empire lasts forever"

Synopsis: Medellin, Colombia. The 80s.Juan Rosolindo is one of the world's most wanted drug dealers by Colombian authorities. His empire of drug trafficking in Colombia has built him a fortune so big, he is considered to be one of the richest men in the world. He leads a very trusted group of traffickers which include his brother Francisco, acting as his right hand man. He is happily married to his wife Vivian, has two children, and holds a close relationship with his father Ricardo. Much of his fortunes have been given to many of the poor citizens of Medellin. The police and DEA are out to catch him, while many of the common folk view him as a monster while at the same time some embrace his actions of giving amongst the growing poverty in Colombia.Colombian police chief Marco Ayanda has dedicated much of his career to catching Rosolindo and putting him away. A key event in the case has occurred that could finally allow the authorities to put Rosolindo away for good. Francisco has been picked up and arrested during a transport. Upon questioning, he is given a proposition, help the DEA catch Juan and be paid a handsome reward along with his freedom, or do time for drug trafficking. Faced with a difficult dilemma, Francisco chooses to help the DEA in secrecy and bring down his brother's empire. But he soon realizes the pain it is causing when he sees the trust his brother holds in him, the dangers of being discovered and the confusion of love and hate between Juan's criminal lifestyle and his viewing as a Colombian Robin Hood. The chase leads Juan to become suspicious of his surroundings and begin to question each man around him, while never being able to bring himself to believe that Francisco would sell him to the authorities. The emotional effects brought on by each side in which the brother's stand become more and more apparent as the case develops. As Juan gets closer and closer to the truth, details begin to unravel for the authorities which include his support of the guerillas and their criminal acts of murder as well as the discovery that Ricardo has been helping his son by hiding evidence thus making him an accomplice to his crimes. Trust is questioned, brotherhoods are broken, and Rosolindo's empire eventually falls.

What the Press would say:
"In the thrilling tradition of Patriot Games and Clear & Present Danger, director Philip Noyce creates a scenario of thrills using superb direction and camera skills. No scene is dull and each event is fantastically crafted to create a cinematic gem.""Pena's performance as Rosolindo is flawless. He becomes the cartel punch for punch, showing no signs of acting, but of natural performing abilities. A giant step in the young actor's career. Maestro is fantastic as his wife, but the surprising supporting show stealer is Ruben Blades. In his few but commanding scenes, he proves himself to be more than just a notable character actor, but steps into the light as a dominating performer. Its amazing how powerful the chemistry is between he and Pena when the two are on screen together. You know Pena is the star and a fantastic performance is given by him, but Blades is the deserving champion between them. Come time for the awards, those two men will be major contenders.""Joshua Marston flourishes with another fantastic script. Maria Full of Grace realistically portrayed the transport of drugs through the scenario of mules, this shows us the fragile empire of drug trafficking. He has a touch for true life. His capture of setting, time and character is phenomenal. No prisoners are taken. He gives it to you how it is."

FYC
BEST PICTURE (Drama)
BEST DIRECTOR- Philip Noyce
BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY- Joshua Marston
BEST ACTOR- Michael Pena
BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR- Ruben Blades
BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS- Mia Maestro
BEST FILM EDITING
BEST ORIGINAL SONG- "La Cancion del Emperador" performed by Jaunes & Manu Chao