While there may only be a handful of movie genres to choose from, there is an abundance of sub-genres to match a viewer's current mood or preference.  Sometimes you feel like watching a gangster movie, but not just any gangster movie.  These movies can be broken down into several sub-genres including Mexican gangster movies.   This sub genre is quite popular, and www.imdb.com is a valuable source to help you find these hidden gems. 

In 1992, movie goers were introduced to a film that would soon become a cult classic.  El Mariachi, an independent film by famous producer Robert Rodriguez, is one of the most popular movies in this genre.  This movie follows the story of an out of work mariachi musician.  In his quest to find work, he runs into a group of menacing gangsters who believe he is a hitman.  The gangsters believe his weapons are hidden inside the guitar case he carries. 

El Mariachi was popular enough to inspire several sequels including, Desperado.  This 1995 movie picks up where El Mariachi ended.  Antonio Banderas and Salma Hayek star in this action/comedy centering on revenge.  El Mariachi's lover was killed, and his good hand was permanently damaged in the first movie.  He is once again mistaken for the real El Mariachi, and terrorized by gangsters throughout the movie. 

Quentin Tarantino and George Clooney teamed up in 1996 to star in From Dusk Til Dawn, which is by far one of the most popular Mexican gangster movies.  In true Quentin Tarantino style, the movie is full of action and gore.  Tarantino and Clooney portray two bank robbers who fled to Mexico with plans to hide out there by paying off the local gang leader.  On their way to meet the Mexican boss, they seek refuge in a strip club that turns out to be a vampire lair. 

Once Upon A Time in Mexico, yet another sequel to El Mariachi, again finds Antonio Banderas fighting gangsters in Mexico.  This time he finds himself in the middle of a fake overthrow of the government by Mexican gangsters, and a dirty CIA agent.  Salma Hayek also rejoined the cast to star in this 2003 sequel.

While the above movies would lead you to believe that Mexican gangster movies are all action coupled with a lot of humor, the 1993 move Blood In, Blood Out portrays the serious side of the life of Mexican gangsters.  This movie is based on the true life story of Jimmy Santiago Baca.  The movie addresses the real consequences of gang affiliation including prison, drugs, violence, death, and the struggles one faces when trying to get out. 

All of the above movies can fit into a number of genres, which means an appeal to the masses.  Consider choosing one of these movies for your next movie night.  There is something for everyone to enjoy in each of these movies.