But just not told very well. Acting was great. The premise was great. It just felt disconnected in parts.
37 Reviews
Basically a good story...
bestgaycities8 August 2021
Let down by average acting and predictable story.
imseeg1 May 2021
The bad: average acting performances. Well, to be honest, these were BELOW AVERAGE acting performances with NO actor's chemistry. This movie was intended to be a real drama and for me personally when I see a drama I really (REALLY) need credible, good acting performances. No actor's chemistry to be enjoyed though in this movie. What a bummer.
More bad: this movies' plot is predictable from the get go. Which makes it pretty boring to watch. The photography or soundtrack look and sound like a commercial; in other words CHEAP
Upon a first look it looked like an honest, real life drama, but what I finally got wasnt bad, but simply below average. Nothing worse then being below average, when making a drama.
More bad: this movies' plot is predictable from the get go. Which makes it pretty boring to watch. The photography or soundtrack look and sound like a commercial; in other words CHEAP
Upon a first look it looked like an honest, real life drama, but what I finally got wasnt bad, but simply below average. Nothing worse then being below average, when making a drama.
Watchable but missing a kick and a twist.
frank-liesenborgs3 November 2021
"No Man's Land" sets up two families on either side of the border. I expected a lot from this movie as the cast seemed unbeatable. The plot and the main characters were also shaky. After the Greer family bump into illegal Mexicans on their property in the middle of the night, Jackson (Jake Allyn) tries to help but ends up shooting and killing Gustavo's (Jorge A. Jimenez) young son Fernando (Alessio Valentini) in the chaos.
When Jackson's father (Frank Grillo) tries taking the blame, Ramirez (George Lopez), a Texas Ranger, suspects the cover up. Jackson flees south into Mexico. On his journey to nowhere, Jackson starts to realize that his neighbours across the border are people too and he starts to develop a bond with Mexico (and a Mexican girl of course). This movie shows that the world is growing apart and racism and prejudgment are ample. The whole storyline is very predictable. Regarding the performances, the most captivating ones are from George Lopez, Jorge Jimenez and Jake Allyn. And always nice to see Frank Grillo in a movie. He never disappoints. Watchable but missing a kick and a twist.
When Jackson's father (Frank Grillo) tries taking the blame, Ramirez (George Lopez), a Texas Ranger, suspects the cover up. Jackson flees south into Mexico. On his journey to nowhere, Jackson starts to realize that his neighbours across the border are people too and he starts to develop a bond with Mexico (and a Mexican girl of course). This movie shows that the world is growing apart and racism and prejudgment are ample. The whole storyline is very predictable. Regarding the performances, the most captivating ones are from George Lopez, Jorge Jimenez and Jake Allyn. And always nice to see Frank Grillo in a movie. He never disappoints. Watchable but missing a kick and a twist.
Better than 5/10
shhmomshere31 August 2021
I had to review because it doesn't deserve less than a 6. It was a decent film that I wouldn't mind watching again and I'd recommend to my sons. The story was moving, I didn't find it boring or slow like most of the popular reviews. The land, the people, Jackson, and Sundance (gorgeous paint horse) kept me invested. The only drawbacks were a couple a couple trope-y characters. I think it was a well rounded story and worthy of telling.
Corny Bad Acting
stevewinnett14 February 2021
George Lopez I've seen his TV shows and numerous performances. George as an actor in this movie looked like it was his very first performance. His phony sounding Texan accent & acting were hideous.
I live in both Mexico & Texas. The characters were a joke.
Bad movie don't waste your $.
I live in both Mexico & Texas. The characters were a joke.
Bad movie don't waste your $.
well-written, charismatic movie
flashlightreview22 January 2021
After reading the summary I thought it would be one of those border movies where people migrate, drugs get trafficked and patrols do their job.
However, I was pleasantly surprised this one had a surprising twist.
This movie is about guilt, forgiveness, family and life decisions - all packaged in a modern Western.
Cinematography, acting and plot were all outstanding, this is a movie you shouldn't miss.
Some reviewers may focus on the aspect of illegal immigration alone; while this is the initial plot of the movie, the further course of the film isn't focused on it.
Who dresses these people???
zephyrcoach13 June 2021
Hollywood has got to do better. The clothing is embarrassing in this movie. South Texas ranchers don't wear skinny jeans. What a joke. Do some research on the dress of the people you are portraying. You take a great story and ruin it with clothing and hats that look hideous. PS. It doesn't take to much research to find someone that could help you with how the hats are shaped and the actual clothing. Do better.
There is a better movie out there
waxyvernix31 July 2021
yes
ilovealiforlife28 December 2021
Warning: Spoilers
The bad: average acting performances. Well, to be honest, these were BELOW AVERAGE acting performances with NO actor's chemistry. This movie was intended to be a real drama and for me personally when I see a drama I really (REALLY) need credible, good acting performances. No actor's chemistry to be enjoyed though in this movie. What a bummer.
the horse whisperer seeks forgiveness
ferguson-622 January 2021
Warning: Spoilers
Greetings again from the darkness. The title is drawn from what the locals call the gap between the Texas-Mexico border and the fence/wall that must be crossed for those looking to make their way. The film is directed by Conor Allyn and was co-written by his brother Jake Allyn and David Barraza. Jake is also the lead actor.
Bill Greer (Frank Grillo, THE GREY, 2011) and his wife Monica (Andie MacDowell) live on a border ranch with their eldest son Lucas (Alex MacNicoll, ALL ROADS LEAD TO PEARLA, 2019). It's not an easy life, as the illegal aliens who cross their land sometimes cut the barbed wire fence for access, allowing the Greer's cattle to escape. Their son Jackson (Jake Allyn) is home from college. He's a baseball prospect with a trip to New York scheduled to meet with the Yankees (it's funny how baseball players in the movies so frequently play for the Yankees). While home, Jackson rides his beloved horse Sundance, and helps chase the illegal aliens off the ranch.
One night things go horribly wrong, and Jackson accidentally shoots Fernando, a young boy who is crossing with his father Gustavo (Jorge Jimenez). As viewers, we've seen the caring father, referred to as "The Shepherd", protect his son from the drug dealers and coyotes. Jackson's dad tries to take the blame for the shooting when interviewed by Texas Ranger Ramirez (George Lopez in a rare dramatic turn for the comedian), but Jackson can't keep quiet and he bolts across the Rio Grande on Sundance.
As Jackson makes his way deeper into Mexico, he crosses paths with a heavily-tattooed blond coyote named Luis (Andres Delgado) - one who had previously tried to scam Gustavo and Fernando. In fact, Luis shows up more often than a bad penny throughout the story. He's the one true villain, yet even he thinks he's doing the right thing (at least sometimes). Jackson is mostly impressed with how nice everyone is, and he ends up working for Victoria (Esmerelda Pimentel) at her father's horse ranch. It turns out, Jackson is a horse-whisperer, in addition to being a talented baseball pitcher.
Jackson decides he must beg forgiveness from Gustavo, not knowing Fernando's father is simultaneously tracking him down in a quest for vengeance. Mr. Jimenez gives the film's finest performance as he flips the switch (quietly, but effectively) from protective and loving father to vengeful man on a mission. The script is filled with clichés and contrivances, with Jackson playing the role of white guilt with an emphasis on cross-cultural empathy. Mexico, and its people, are not like what he expected or had been led to believe. An elevator ride, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, and a rendezvous at a funeral are examples of scenes that induce cringes from us as viewers, but nothing too outrageous is included, and we are engaged enough to continue along on Jackson's trip.
Bill Greer (Frank Grillo, THE GREY, 2011) and his wife Monica (Andie MacDowell) live on a border ranch with their eldest son Lucas (Alex MacNicoll, ALL ROADS LEAD TO PEARLA, 2019). It's not an easy life, as the illegal aliens who cross their land sometimes cut the barbed wire fence for access, allowing the Greer's cattle to escape. Their son Jackson (Jake Allyn) is home from college. He's a baseball prospect with a trip to New York scheduled to meet with the Yankees (it's funny how baseball players in the movies so frequently play for the Yankees). While home, Jackson rides his beloved horse Sundance, and helps chase the illegal aliens off the ranch.
One night things go horribly wrong, and Jackson accidentally shoots Fernando, a young boy who is crossing with his father Gustavo (Jorge Jimenez). As viewers, we've seen the caring father, referred to as "The Shepherd", protect his son from the drug dealers and coyotes. Jackson's dad tries to take the blame for the shooting when interviewed by Texas Ranger Ramirez (George Lopez in a rare dramatic turn for the comedian), but Jackson can't keep quiet and he bolts across the Rio Grande on Sundance.
As Jackson makes his way deeper into Mexico, he crosses paths with a heavily-tattooed blond coyote named Luis (Andres Delgado) - one who had previously tried to scam Gustavo and Fernando. In fact, Luis shows up more often than a bad penny throughout the story. He's the one true villain, yet even he thinks he's doing the right thing (at least sometimes). Jackson is mostly impressed with how nice everyone is, and he ends up working for Victoria (Esmerelda Pimentel) at her father's horse ranch. It turns out, Jackson is a horse-whisperer, in addition to being a talented baseball pitcher.
Jackson decides he must beg forgiveness from Gustavo, not knowing Fernando's father is simultaneously tracking him down in a quest for vengeance. Mr. Jimenez gives the film's finest performance as he flips the switch (quietly, but effectively) from protective and loving father to vengeful man on a mission. The script is filled with clichés and contrivances, with Jackson playing the role of white guilt with an emphasis on cross-cultural empathy. Mexico, and its people, are not like what he expected or had been led to believe. An elevator ride, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, and a rendezvous at a funeral are examples of scenes that induce cringes from us as viewers, but nothing too outrageous is included, and we are engaged enough to continue along on Jackson's trip.
A Tale of Redemtion
prisprez19 August 2021
No Mans Land - Could Have Been
krocheav30 December 2021
This thoughtful film could have been a minor modern epic if it had been given a stronger script. As is, it holds interest until some poorly developed story details begin to become too obvious. It's also photographically patchy, with cheap handheld shots bringing down the better-constructed sequences. Some distracting editing in the first half won't help it gain the attention the overall story is straining for - a pity because the whole thing has very good intentions as we follow a young man's attempts to redeem himself for an accidental killing.
Performances are sincere with the casting generally convincing, it's just the weak moments in the script that let it down. Music is well used throughout including a couple of interesting songs and the outdoor locations standing in for the Tex-Mex border add impact - those who don't feel the need to analyse their entertainment won't mind the flaws, others may be let down.
Performances are sincere with the casting generally convincing, it's just the weak moments in the script that let it down. Music is well used throughout including a couple of interesting songs and the outdoor locations standing in for the Tex-Mex border add impact - those who don't feel the need to analyse their entertainment won't mind the flaws, others may be let down.
You must be bilingual to watch this
phojar17 May 2021
There are no Spanish subtitles and literally HALF the movie is in Spanish. I lost interest after 10 minutes when I had no idea what was being said.
Like, not just a sentence here and there, literally entire conversations.
Like, not just a sentence here and there, literally entire conversations.
If I could give a 0, I would.
cmmvkqzbrp11 April 2021
Could have been shorter
jms_mckelvey31 January 2021
Why did Jackson run
Draysan-Jennings23 January 2021
Warning: Spoilers
His father was just stabbed by someone trespassing on their land. In addition they were also trying to take his gun. If he would of owned up to it in the beginning, he would of easily beaten the charges with self-defense. Instead he runs away risking his life as well as ruining his chance of playing major league baseball. Despite the nonsensical plot the movie had some great cinematography and decent acting. Plus we get to see George Lopez take a bullet in the end. 5 stars.
a little slow
donnieeb3 February 2021
This movie was okay.it was a little to slow and boring but the story is good.should have been cut to about 90 minutes. i dont recommend it.but it may be worth your time. im a western fan and still thought it was boring
I wanted to like it!
darrenlockwood4 August 2021
I wanted to like it but it's sadly I didn't. Started out with a lot of promise in the first 15 minutes and from there the plot was very sloppy and slow and drawn out.
It was no surprise to find out that the lead actor was the writer because it seemed a very self-indulgent character.
Whilst not giving away any spoilers the ending was an admirable finish, but still not enough to make it worth your while to watch.
Unless you're a fan of slow movies that keep you guessing that something is going to improve then this one is not for you.
It was no surprise to find out that the lead actor was the writer because it seemed a very self-indulgent character.
Whilst not giving away any spoilers the ending was an admirable finish, but still not enough to make it worth your while to watch.
Unless you're a fan of slow movies that keep you guessing that something is going to improve then this one is not for you.
Fairly solid tale of guilt, loss and redemption
Bobalopacus9 November 2022
Set in contemporary Texas and Mexico and revolving around two families: - one, Texan ranch owners, the other, Mexican illegal migrants - it's hard to avoid the heavy political undertones here, yet the movie manages to do a fair job of showing multiple viewpoints and generating empathy for all sides.
An encounter on the border goes fatally wrong and lives are plunged into turmoil. One of the ranch owner's sons, Jackson, played by Jake Allyn, is racked with guilt.
Pursued by a Texan Ranger he crosses the border to Mexico - is he merely attempting to escape justice or in search of forgiveness and redemption?
This one took a little too long to fully engage me, but at the moment Jackson goes on the run it definitely picks up speed.
The plot is formulaic, the character arcs predictable and the acting is nothing spectacular, but there are some touching moments together with a decent chase-style adventure.
Allyn is likeable (if a little bland) and watching him go through certain trials, and bonding with those he meets, was enjoyable enough.
An encounter on the border goes fatally wrong and lives are plunged into turmoil. One of the ranch owner's sons, Jackson, played by Jake Allyn, is racked with guilt.
Pursued by a Texan Ranger he crosses the border to Mexico - is he merely attempting to escape justice or in search of forgiveness and redemption?
This one took a little too long to fully engage me, but at the moment Jackson goes on the run it definitely picks up speed.
The plot is formulaic, the character arcs predictable and the acting is nothing spectacular, but there are some touching moments together with a decent chase-style adventure.
Allyn is likeable (if a little bland) and watching him go through certain trials, and bonding with those he meets, was enjoyable enough.
Enjoyed
ChrisJeanes13 August 2021
"Sometimes you have to close your eyes and start over to see things clearly."
classicsoncall29 April 2022
Warning: Spoilers
I agree with another reviewer who states the film deserves a better IMDb rating, though I would acknowledge that the writers might have had an agenda in mind. The story is poignant and heart wrenching for the individuals involved, but I feel it shouldn't be taken as an apology or endorsement of illegal immigration. Jackson Greer's (Jake Allyn) eye opening and harried experience in tracking down the father of the boy he killed is meant to convey his remorse and search for redemption, and Gustavo's (Jorge A. Jimenez) acceptance of his tearful apology demonstrated a shared understanding of the tragic consequences of young Fernando's (Alessio Valentini) death. Jackson showed courage in accepting blame for his own actions in spite of his father's (Frank Grillo) attempt to provide him cover, and proved he was a person of character. The only truly despicable character here was the coyote Luis (Andrés Delgado), who as time went by, was recognized as such even by Gustavo. This may be considered a Western by some by virtue of the story's locale, but it really transcends the genre with it's message of forgiveness and redemption.
No concept of the rating system
bluefade99910 July 2021
So let me explain something. This is how the rating system works here for those of you that don't know. From 1 to 10 with 1 being the worst and 10 being the best, this is how it goes. Rating: 1. Complete and utter trash. You can't believe that money was actually spent on this steaming pile of garbage. Acting was the worst in history. Story was garbage. Directing was done by what appears to be a 5 years old with a 1965 home camera. One of/if not the worst movies ever made. Rating: 2. Pretty horrible in all regards. The acting and directing are the same as rating 1, however it had a moment or two that raised the bar just a tad, but still a horrible horrible movie all around. Rating 3. Still really bad, but you found yourself slightly interested in a few parts. You actually say to yourself "that was actually not to bad of a scene". You still think it was garbage but you tell your friends "hey if you can watch it for free and literally have NOTHING else to do I guess give it a watch but don't hope for to much". Rating 4: Not horrible but below average. It could have been WAYYY better, but the acting was OK and the story was OK although it is probably a tired story you have heard and seen in movies a thousand times before. Also it is very predictable as to what is going to happen. No real surprises. Rating 5: Average. Just an average all around movie. It was decent enough to kill 90 or 120 minutes and it had some cool parts, but still pretty forgettable. Not bad acting or directing at all but still just average. Rating 6: Above average. You were actually a little surprised at how much you enjoyed it because you came in with very low expectations. Not bad at all. In fact pretty decent film really. Rating 7: Surprisingly very good. You walk away telling your friends "dude, you need to see this movie. It was actually really really good. I really enjoyed that. I hope they make more of those.". Rating: 8. AMAZING film. Steller performances from the entire cast. The writing, directing and editing were spot on. This film will go down as a Steller film. Yes there were a few plot holes and slow pacing in some scenes but overall a fantastic movie. Rating: 9. A darn near perfect film. I mean everything was amazing. The performances all deserve Oscars. This film will become legendary. Just a few minor things bring it down but MAN was that an amazing piece of art. Truly incredible. Rating: 10. A perfect film. Nothing is wrong with this film. It is flawless from beginning to end. Best picture, actor, actress, writing, editing, directing should sweep the Oscars. This was one of the (if not the) greatest films ever made. This film will be talked about for millennia after its made. A true unequivocal masterpiece in all regards.
So why do I mention the rating system? Because some of you obviously don't understand it because you rated this film a 10/10, 9/10, 8/10, or even a 7/10. This film was at BEST a 3/10. I rated it a 2/10 because for some unknown reason, the people who made this film thought it would be a good idea to have half the movie spoken in Spanish and not have English subtitles. Everybody knows that one of the biggest/ if not the biggest besides China, cinema selling landscapes is America where the majority of people speak English and yet they decided not to include subtitles. It's hard to get into a movie when you literally have no idea what is being said.
Also, the editing was bad, the directing was bad, and the writing was bad. It was trying to be some art house film with a boring story that has been told so many different ways that it really is getting old at this point. One last thing. Frank Grillo has the acting ability of a worm. He will only be a secondary character actor and any movie he stars in is stright to video flops. I can only imagine what is in his contract. He once stated that he actually hits his co-stars because it looks more real. What a pretentious way of thinking. His co-stars must really love him. He probably says "I have to come across as a tough guy or I am not doing the job. I doubt we will see any stellar performance from him ever. This movie was a joke.
So why do I mention the rating system? Because some of you obviously don't understand it because you rated this film a 10/10, 9/10, 8/10, or even a 7/10. This film was at BEST a 3/10. I rated it a 2/10 because for some unknown reason, the people who made this film thought it would be a good idea to have half the movie spoken in Spanish and not have English subtitles. Everybody knows that one of the biggest/ if not the biggest besides China, cinema selling landscapes is America where the majority of people speak English and yet they decided not to include subtitles. It's hard to get into a movie when you literally have no idea what is being said.
Also, the editing was bad, the directing was bad, and the writing was bad. It was trying to be some art house film with a boring story that has been told so many different ways that it really is getting old at this point. One last thing. Frank Grillo has the acting ability of a worm. He will only be a secondary character actor and any movie he stars in is stright to video flops. I can only imagine what is in his contract. He once stated that he actually hits his co-stars because it looks more real. What a pretentious way of thinking. His co-stars must really love him. He probably says "I have to come across as a tough guy or I am not doing the job. I doubt we will see any stellar performance from him ever. This movie was a joke.
Not much realistic
vrundashah-9566328 August 2021
The concept of having remorse and thought of accepting and apologizing for your mistake, is very beautiful. At the same time, they have shown as if mexico is so perfect, if that's the case, than why are we having so many immigrants??? Not logical at all.
See also
Awards | FAQ | User Ratings | External Reviews | Metacritic Reviews
