Customer Reviews

The Ballad of Gregorio Cortez [VHS]

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
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Probably the most authentic Western ever made, this gripping adventure film recounts the true story of the largest manhunt in Texas history. In June 1901, six hundred Texas Rangers chased Gregorio Cortez, a Mexican-American ranch hand, for ll days across 450 miles of terrain. Was Cortez a cold-blooded killer or an innocent man fleeing injustice? You decide. Starring Edward James Olmos ("Miami Vice", "Stand and Deliver"). Based on the book by folklorist Américo Paredes, "With A Pistol in His Hand" (1958, Austin: University of Texas Press). Olmos, who met this author in February 2000, told her in person he has two favorite films from the many he has made--this one and "Caught" (1996).

I have seen The Gregorio Cortez Movie probably about 20 times. I was good friends with Dr. Americo Paredes, the writer of the book and live very close to the area that Senor Cortez lived and worked. This movie should be made a standard in every school in America. It was very dramatic, sensitive, and a eye opener.

Great film, thoroughly enjoyable. However, even more enjoyment can be had by understanding the entire story to be found in Americo Paredes' book "With a Pistol in His Hands." Here you will find out that fact can be more amazing than legend.

This VHS production of The Ballad of Gregorio Cortez is a great film about the tragic story behind the flawed pursuit of a man made worse by cultural and lanuguage barriers. This film reveals a lot about the prevailing attitudes of the time (early 1900s) and how they contributed to an imperfect system of justice.

I saw this in college. It still has relevancy today. How the power of word can lead to problems and how prejudice can lead people to do things they are not inclined to do. Very well acted movie. Highly recommended.

I read "El Corrido de Gregorio Cortez" with my Spanish students. This movie brought the ballad to life and gave them an authentic view of the character of Gregorio Cortez and the times he lived in. My students were engaged, intrigued and will always remember this famous story.