El gavilán de la sierra

Musician Rosendo Nevárez learns of his brother Gabriel’s death in a remote spot in the Durango mountains and decides to return to his boyhood home to learn more about his brother’s untimely end. Gabriel, who was more widely known as the “Mountain Hawk,” led an outlaw’s life which was either that of a lowly criminal or daring do-gooder, as accounts of the man’s life vary depending on the point of view of the interviewee. As Rosendo digs deeper for the truth, it becomes apparent that Gabriel was a heroic figure worthy of the song his brother plans to write in his commemoration—if only Rosendo can overcome his growing envy for his brother’s immortal status as a swashbuckling rebel.

Directed by Juan Antonio de la Riva, El gavilán de la sierra leans on a strong ensemble — Guillermo Larrea, Claudia Goytia, Mario Almada — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about screen titles of 2002.