Transpecos (2016) Movie Review

About Transpecos

Transpecos, directed by Greg Kwedar and released in 2016, is a gripping drama-cum-thriller that revolves around three Border Patrol agents working in a remote desert outpost. The story unfolds as they discover a car containing contraband that is more deadly than they could ever imagine. The events of this one day will change their lives forever.

Making / Production

Transpecos was produced by Kwedar, Clint Bentley, and Nancy Schafer, with cinematography by Jeffrey Waldron. The film's realistic feel was accomplished by shooting on location in the desolate landscapes of New Mexico, reflecting the harsh realities faced by the Border Patrol.

Actors

• Johnny Simmons: Playing the role of Benjamin Davis, Johnny portrays a well-meaning but naive Border Patrol agent. He skillfully mixes vulnerability with resolution to create an engaging character.
• Gabriel Luna: As agent Flores, Luna delivers a performance packed with intensity, grappling with the moral complexities of his duty.
• Clifton Collins Jr.: As the seasoned agent, Hobbs, Collins is hard-edged yet remarkably empathetic, revealing the shades of his character's moral ambiguity.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Director Greg Kwedar spent several years researching the U.S. Border Patrol to bring authenticity to the plot.
• The film was shot on location in New Mexico, which was used as a stand-in for the Mexican border.

Quotes

• "We got a real mess on our hands."
• "We are the law down here, my friends."

Music and Soundtrack

The score of Transpecos was composed by Aaron Dessner and Bryce Dessner, members of the acclaimed band The National. Their composition added a hauntingly beautiful backdrop to the film, enhancing its atmospheric tension.