Killer (beauty) queen

When it comes to remakes, you have to consider two options: it either honors the original or it's different enough to be its' own film. 2011's Miss Bala was revered for being highly unique and provocative, a modern classic in Mexican cinema. This version of Miss Bala, starring the always lovely Gina Rodriguez as the leading heroine, follows the same blueprint in terms of story and setting with some slight alterations. Gloria (Rodriguez), a makeup artist visiting a friend in Tijuana, gets her world turned into a nightmare when during a night of partying her friend goes missing after a drug gang shootout. The same gang kidnaps Gloria, recruiting her to be their drug mule. To makes matters worst, she also becomes involved with several DEA agents obligating her to work with them to bring the gang down; requiring her to play both sides in order to rescue her friend. Although this version doesn't carry the same level of edginess the original had, it is still a taut and intense thriller thanks to the steady pacing and is bolstered by a winning performance by Gina who quite frankly carries the whole film exceptionally well. Even if you've seen the original, this well- made remake deserves a look-see.