Unveiling Mexico’s Silver Screen: Exploring the Best Films Set in this Enchanting Destination

Mexico, with its vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and picturesque landscapes, has long been a sought-after destination for filmmakers. This article provides a comprehensive travel guide to explore Mexico’s cinematic landscape. From the silver screen to the realms of books and TV series, we delve into the heart of Mexico’s rich cultural tapestry that has been immortalized in various media.

10 Famous Films Shot in Mexico

Mexico’s natural beauty and cultural richness have provided the perfect backdrop for numerous cinematic masterpieces. Here are ten films that skillfully utilized Mexico’s diverse locales to tell their stories:

1. “The Treasure of the Sierra Madre” (1948): This film, featuring Humphrey Bogart, showcases the rugged landscapes of Mexico as it narrates the tale of gold prospectors.
2. “The Night of the Iguana” (1964): Shot in the picturesque coastal town of Puerto Vallarta, this film brought the location into the international limelight.
3. “Romeo + Juliet” (1996): Baz Luhrmann’s modern adaptation of the Shakespearean classic was filmed in Mexico City and Veracruz, capturing the country’s urban vibrancy.
4. “Amores Perros” (2000): This critically acclaimed film, set in Mexico City, offers a gritty portrayal of life in the metropolis.
5. “Y Tu Mamá También” (2001): This coming-of-age film beautifully captures the scenic landscapes of Oaxaca and Huatulco.
6. “Frida” (2002): Chronicling the life of Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, the film showcases several historic sites in Mexico City.
7. “Apocalypto” (2006): Mel Gibson’s epic adventure film was shot in the jungles of Catemaco, Veracruz.
8. “Spectre” (2015): The opening sequence of this James Bond film, set amidst the Day of the Dead festivities in Mexico City, is one of the most memorable cinematic moments shot in Mexico.
9. “Coco” (2017): Although an animated film, “Coco” accurately depicts Mexican traditions and customs, making the country a central character in the film.
10. “Roma” (2018): Alfonso Cuarón’s Oscar-winning film beautifully portrays everyday life in the Colonia Roma neighborhood of Mexico City.

These films not only highlight the diverse charm of Mexico but also underscore the country’s significant contribution to world cinema.

5 TV Shows Set in Mexico

Mexico’s allure extends to the smaller screen as well. Here are five TV series that encapsulate the spirit of this captivating country:

1. “The Queen of the South” (2011-Present): This crime drama series, filmed in several Mexican cities, delves into the world of drug cartels.
2. “Narcos: Mexico” (2018-Present): This popular Netflix series, set in the 1980s, explores the origins of the modern drug war in Mexico.
3. “Monarca” (2019-Present): This drama series chronicles a billionaire business family’s corruption and scandal in Mexico.
4. “Luis Miguel: The Series” (2018-Present): This biographical series, filmed in Mexico, recounts the life of famous Mexican singer Luis Miguel.
5. “Yankee” (2019): This Netflix series tells the story of a young businessman from Arizona who becomes a drug lord in Mexico.

Through these series, viewers get a glimpse of different facets of Mexican culture, from its complex socio-political landscape to its vibrant entertainment industry.

5 Animated Films Set in Mexico

Mexico’s charm transcends age groups, serving as an enchanting backdrop for several animated films. Here are five children’s and animated films that bring the spirit of Mexico alive:

1. “The Book of Life” (2014): This film, centered around the Mexican holiday of the Day of the Dead, is a visual treat.
2. “Coco” (2017): This Oscar-winning Pixar film, set in a Mexican village during the Day of the Dead, celebrates Mexican culture and traditions.
3. “Ferdinand” (2017): Though not entirely set in Mexico, this film features a Mexican bullfighter, portraying elements of Mexican culture.
4. “Maya and the Three” (2021): This mini-series, inspired by Mesoamerican mythology, presents a fantastical version of pre-Columbian Mexico.
5. “Seis Manos” (2019-Present): This Netflix series, set in the fictional town of San Simon in Mexico, combines elements of martial arts, Mexican folklore, and supernatural horror.

These animated features, with their vibrant visuals and engaging narratives, are a testament to Mexico’s unique cultural richness.

Famous Books Set in Mexico: 3 Classic and 3 Contemporary

Mexico’s rich history and diverse landscapes have been a wellspring of inspiration for authors around the globe. Here are three classic and three contemporary books that transport readers to the heart of Mexico:

Classic:

1. “The Underdogs” by Mariano Azuela: This book offers a gripping account of the Mexican Revolution.
2. “Pedro Páramo” by Juan Rulfo: This landmark of Latin American literature vividly portrays rural Mexico.
3. “The Labyrinth of Solitude” by Octavio Paz: This collection of essays provides an insightful exploration of the Mexican identity.

Contemporary:

1. “Signs Preceding the End of the World” by Yuri Herrera: This novel, set along the US-Mexico border, presents a poignant tale of migration.
2. “Prayers for the Stolen” by Jennifer Clement: This book tells a harrowing tale of young girls growing up in Guerrero, a Mexican state ravaged by drug cartels.
3. “The Murmur of Bees” by Sofí­a Segovia: Set during the Mexican Revolution and the Spanish flu epidemic, this novel weaves a tale of mystery and magic in rural Mexico.

These books offer a literary journey through Mexico’s multifaceted persona, from its historic landmarks and tumultuous past to its vibrant present.

Exploring Mexico’s Filming Locations – Where to Go

From bustling cities to serene landscapes, Mexico offers a plethora of settings that have been immortalized on screen. Here are some must-visit filming locations in Mexico:

1. Zocalo, Mexico City: The heart of Mexico City, featured in numerous films including “Spectre”.
2. Teotihuacan Pyramids, San Juan Teotihuacan: These ancient pyramids, featured in “The Other Conquest”, offer a glimpse into Mexico’s pre-Columbian history.
3. Marieta Islands, Nayarit: Featured in “The Night of the Iguana”, these islands are a natural wonder.
4. Garrafon Park, Isla Mujeres: A filming location for “The Real World: Cancun”, this natural park offers stunning ocean views.
5. Guanajuato City, Guanajuato: The colorful cityscape of Guanajuato provided the inspiration for the fictional town of Santa Cecilia in “Coco”.

Visiting these filming locations offers a unique blend of entertainment and sightseeing, allowing you to engage with Mexico’s cinematic heritage while enjoying its many cultural and natural attractions.

Where to Sleep in Mexico: 3 Budget and 3 Luxury Options

Mexico offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. Here are three budget and three luxury options:

Budget:

1. Hostel Mundo Joven Catedral, Mexico City: This hostel offers affordable rooms with a view of the Zocalo.
2. Hotel Socaire, Campeche: A budget-friendly option, this hotel is located in the heart of Campeche, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
3. Cabo Inn Hotel, Cabo San Lucas: This economical hotel is a stone’s throw away from the beach and downtown Cabo San Lucas.

Luxury:

1. The St. Regis Mexico City: Located in one of the city’s tallest buildings, this hotel offers luxurious accommodations with breathtaking views.
2. One&Only Palmilla, Los Cabos: This luxury resort, frequented by Hollywood celebrities, offers a private beach and world-class dining.
3. Rosewood Mayakoba, Riviera Maya: Set amidst lagoons and mangroves, this luxury resort offers private suites with plunge pools.

Whether you’re a budget traveler or a luxury seeker, Mexico’s accommodations cater to every preference and budget.

A Taste of Mexico: Where to Eat From Budget to Luxury

Mexico’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscapes, offering a range of dining options from street food to gourmet cuisine. Here are some places to enjoy Mexican gastronomy:

Budget:

1. Tacos El Huequito, Mexico City: Famous for its tacos al pastor, this eatery is a favorite among locals.
2. Mercado 28, Cancun: This market offers a variety of local dishes at affordable prices.
3. El Parnita, Mexico City: This popular restaurant offers a wide range of Mexican dishes at reasonable prices.

Luxury:

1. Pujol, Mexico City: Ranked among the world’s best restaurants, Pujol offers innovative Mexican cuisine.
2. Casa Oaxaca, Oaxaca: This restaurant is renowned for its gourmet Oaxacan cuisine.
3. Le Chique, Riviera Maya: Located in the Azul Sensatori Hotel, this restaurant offers a unique multi-sensory dining experience.

Whether you’re a foodie on a budget or a gourmet connoisseur, Mexico’s culinary scene has something for everyone.

Detailed Itinerary: Exploring Mexico’s Cinematic Landscape

Embark on a seven-day journey exploring Mexico’s cinematic locations, immersing yourself in the country’s rich culture and history.

Day 1: Mexico City – Start your tour at the Zocalo, featured in “Spectre”. Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum, a filming location for “Frida”. End your day at the iconic Arena Mexico, showcased in “Nacho Libre”.

Day 2: Teotihuacan and Puebla – Visit the Teotihuacan Pyramids, a filming location for “The Other Conquest”. Head to Puebla, where “Cinco de Mayo: The Battle” was filmed.

Day 3: Veracruz – Explore the historic city of Veracruz, featured in “The Pearl”. Visit the San Juan de Ulíºa Castle, where scenes from “Romancing the Stone” were shot.

Day 4: Oaxaca – Head to Oaxaca, the setting for “Coco”. Visit the Monte Alban ruins, featured in “Apocalypto”.

Day 5: Guanajuato – Explore the colorful cityscape of Guanajuato, the inspiration for “Coco”. Visit the Callejón del Beso, featured in “Don Juan DeMarco”.

Day 6: Puerto Vallarta – Visit the Marieta Islands, a filming location for “The Night of the Iguana”. Explore the city’s vibrant nightlife, showcased in “Puerto Vallarta Squeeze”.

Day 7: Cancun – Spend your last day relaxing at the beaches of Cancun, featured in “The Real World: Cancun”.

This itinerary offers a unique cinematic journey through Mexico, combining sightseeing with movie magic.

Cryptid Legends and Curiosities in Mexico

Mexico is a land rich in legends and folklore. One of the most famous cryptids in Mexico is the Chupacabra, a creature said to drain the blood of livestock. This legend has inspired numerous films and TV shows.

Another fascinating legend is that of La Llorona, or the Weeping Woman. This ghostly figure, said to roam near bodies of water wailing for her lost children, has been the subject of numerous films.

These legends add a touch of mystery and intrigue to Mexico’s cinematic locations, offering a wealth of inspiration for storytellers.

Hidden Gems in Mexico: Lesser-Known Filming Locations

Mexico boasts numerous off-the-beaten-path filming locations that are worth exploring:

1. San Lorenzo de Carapoa, Durango: This small village was transformed into a Wild West town for “The Sons of Katie Elder”.
2. Tlayacapan, Morelos: This picturesque town was a filming location for “The Magnificent Seven”.
3. Celestíºn, Yucatán: This coastal town, known for its flamingo population, was featured in “Birdman”.

These hidden gems offer unique vistas and experiences, free from the usual tourist crowds.

What to Pack for a Film-Themed Trip to Mexico

When packing for a film-themed trip to Mexico, keep in mind the country’s climate and your planned activities. Here are some essentials:

1. Comfortable footwear: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure to pack comfortable shoes.
2. Versatile clothing: Pack lightweight clothing for the day and warmer layers for cooler evenings. Include a mix of casual and smart outfits.
3. Sun protection: Mexico can be sunny, so pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
4. Camera: To capture your own cinematic memories.
5. Travel guide and map: For finding those filming locations and hidden gems.

With these packing tips, you’ll be well-prepared for your cinematic journey through Mexico.

Transportation Tips for Getting Around Mexico

Mexico has a comprehensive transportation network, making it relatively easy to get around:

Bus: Mexico has an extensive and reliable bus network that connects major cities and tourist destinations.

Car: Renting a car can be a good option if you wish to explore rural areas or smaller towns. Remember to keep a map or GPS handy as road signs can be sparse.

Air: Domestic flights are a quick and convenient way to travel long distances. Major cities and tourist destinations are well-connected by numerous airlines.

Public Transportation: Larger cities like Mexico City and Guadalajara have comprehensive public transportation systems, including metros and buses.

With these transportation options, you can easily explore Mexico’s cinematic locales.

Travel Documents Needed for Visiting Mexico

When planning your trip to Mexico, make sure you have the following travel documents:

1. Passport: Must be valid for the duration of your stay in Mexico.
2. Tourist Card (FMM): This is issued upon arrival in Mexico and must be kept safe until your departure.
3. Travel Insurance: It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, and lost luggage.
4. International Driving Permit (IDP): If you plan to rent a car, an IDP is required along with your valid driver’s license.

Having these documents in order will help ensure a smooth journey through cinematic Mexico.

Conclusion: Discover the Cinematic Allure of Mexico

From the bustling streets of Mexico City to the serene beaches of Cancun, Mexico offers a cinematic journey like no other. Whether you’re a film enthusiast, a TV series buff, a book lover, or a traveler seeking unique experiences, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of Mexico’s cinematic allure. Embark on a journey through Mexico’s famous films, TV shows, books, and discover the hidden gems that make this country a filmmaker’s dream. ¡Buen viaje!