Narco Cultura 
Directed by: Shaul Schwarz
Rated: R
Run Time: 103
Genre: Documentary
Opens December 6th
By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com
Hey Phoenix Film Fans! Opening in Phoenix and Tucson this week is the documentary that premiered at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival and was featured in the 2013 Berlin International Film Festival, as well as Hot Docs and Fantastic Fest. Taking an unfiltered look into the Narco Cultura wave that is sweeping across Mexico and the US, the issues that the Mexican citizens and their first responders are facing, as well the exponential rise in crime and murder over the past 6 years.
A word to the wise, this documentary shows raw, uncensored footage of murder scenes, autopsy and is unapologetic about the way that it is presented. Showing the issues faces from several viewpoints; a CSI Investigator, music artists dubbed “narcocorridas” and even low level cartel members, the facts presented are astounding. For example, Juarez, Mexico sits across the border from El Paso, Texas. In 2010, Juarez had 3622 murders while that same year El Paso was named one of the safest cities in the US with only 5 murders.
If anything, this is a must see documentary as the facts are a plenty and need to be seen to be believed. It appears to be balanced in its approach to representing all sides of the story fairly, but it’s up to the viewer to search out the information to confirm its validity. The information delivered is chilling, creates a new found compassion for the citizens of Mexico and awareness of what is going on in the Latino community within our own country. It also raises the argument of violence in art and entertainment - where does the line need to be drawn? Be sure to check out “Narco Cultura” when it opens in Phoenix and Tucson theaters starting Friday December 6, 2013.
