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Robert Rodriguez
04/17/25
@ Lex Fridman
I was determined to hire a real Latin actress for 'Desperado', which was challenging due to the lack of roles available for Hispanic actors in Hollywood at the time.
Video
LF
Robert Rodriguez: Sin City, Desperado, El Mariachi, Alita, and Filmmaking | Lex Fridman Podcast #465
@ Lex Fridman
04/17/25
Related Takeaways
RR
Robert Rodriguez
04/17/25
@ Lex Fridman
I met Salma Hayek while watching a show on Univision, and I knew she was the right fit for the role in 'Desperado' despite the studio's initial reluctance.
RR
Robert Rodriguez
04/17/25
@ Lex Fridman
The studio didn't initially see the potential in Salma Hayek for 'Desperado', but once they saw her chemistry with Antonio Banderas, they changed their minds.
RR
Robert Rodriguez
04/17/25
@ Lex Fridman
When I was making 'El Mariachi', I didn't speak Spanish, which added an inspiring layer to the story of creating a film in a language I didn't know.
RR
Robert Rodriguez
04/17/25
@ Lex Fridman
Creating my own Latin star system was essential for my films, as it allowed me to cast authentically and tell stories that resonate with my voice.
RR
Robert Rodriguez
04/17/25
@ Lex Fridman
Lady Gaga expressed interest in acting after seeing 'Machete', and I was able to cast her in a sequel because I could shoot her scenes quickly.
RR
Robert Rodriguez
04/17/25
@ Lex Fridman
I shot 'El Mariachi' in one take to save costs, expecting that some parts might not come out, but I was willing to reshoot if necessary.
RR
Robert Rodriguez
04/17/25
@ Lex Fridman
I shot Desperado digitally in my house in 1994, which was unheard of at the time. I insisted on editing it myself because it was crucial for me to have that creative control.
RR
Robert Rodriguez
04/17/25
@ Lex Fridman
While editing Desperado, I was also working on From Dusk Till Dawn, cutting both movies simultaneously, which was a hectic but rewarding experience.
RR
Robert Rodriguez
04/17/25
@ Lex Fridman
I shot 'El Mariachi' on a 16mm camera without knowing how to use it, relying on phone calls for guidance.