Once Upon a Time in the Midlands

El Mariachi, a skilled musician turned assassin, is approached by CIA officer Sheldon Jeffrey Sands. Sands recognizes El Mariachi's talents and recruits him for a critical mission to eliminate General Emiliano Marquez, a corrupt officer in the Mexican Army.

Sands learns that Marquez is a puppet for the ruthless drug lord Armando Barillo. This dangerous alliance poses an imminent threat as Barillo schemes to assassinate the President of Mexico during a time of unrest in Culiacan.

The President of Mexico courageously addresses the people of Culiacan, urging them to unite against Barillo's criminal empire. He is aware of Barillo's facade as a folk hero and hopes that the citizens recognize the reality behind his violent reputation.

Bellini, a friend of Sands, recounts El Mariachi's tragic backstory. During a shootout, both El Mariachi's wife Carolina and their daughter were killed by Marquez, who was betrayed by Carolina in an effort to save El Mariachi, setting the stage for his quest for vengeance.

Sands goes to extreme measures to test El Mariachi's survival skills by sending assassins after him. This dangerous initiation emphasizes the seriousness of the mission while highlighting El Mariachi's determination and capability as an assassin.

Sands successfully persuades Jorge Ramirez, a former FBI agent, to join their fight against Barillo. Ramirez's personal vendetta against Barillo, stemming from the death of his partner, adds a compelling layer to their alliance.

Ajedrez, an operative under Sands, faces difficulties as she navigates the limitations placed on her due to her gender in the police force. Despite her struggles, she remains committed to tracking down Barillo and supporting the mission.

Billy Chambers, an American fugitive linked to Barillo, wrestles with moral dilemmas in his corrupt life. His cooperation with Ramirez presents a desperate chance to join the fight against Barillo, leading to intense confrontations.

As the plans to eliminate Barillo unfold, Sands suddenly finds himself captured. His abduction forces El Mariachi and Ramirez to confront the new dynamics of their mission and the urgency to rescue him.

During the chaotic Day of the Dead celebrations, El Mariachi defies Sands' orders by intervening to protect the President. Gunfire breaks loose in the presidential palace, highlighting the dangerous stakes they face.

In a climactic showdown, El Mariachi finally confronts General Marquez, the man responsible for his family's tragic deaths. The long-awaited retribution is fierce as personal vendettas and the survival of the President collide.

After a series of betrayals, El Mariachi and Ramirez manage to confront and ultimately take down Armando Barillo and Ajedrez. This pivotal moment signifies the reclaiming of their honor and the victory over corruption.

In the aftermath of the violent confrontations, El Mariachi makes a choice to give his share of the spoils back to his village. This selfless act symbolizes hope for those affected by the turmoil and reflects his commitment to justice.

As El Mariachi walks away from the carnage, he strides into the sunset, forever changed by the battles fought. His experiences serve as a reminder of the lengths one must go to protect their loved ones and seek justice.