Drug Wars: The Camarena Story

A great film based on DEA agent, Enrique"Kiki" Camerena of Calexico California. Acclaimed director, Michael Mann of "Miami Vice", "Heat" and "The Insider" was Executive Producer of this 1991 Mini-series directed by Brian Gibson. It was the second most watched NBC mini-series of the year following "The Kennedys". Filmed on location in Spain, "Drug Wars" is a powerhouse film depicting the role of the DEA in Mexico in 1985 that led to the unveiling of drug corruption within the Mexican government. At the head of the investigation was agent Camerena, played by Steven Bauer along with Jaime Kurkendall,portrayed by Craig T. Nelson (wonderful performance by the way). Miguel Ferrer,Tony Plana, Elizabeth Pena and then 24 year old, Benicio Del Torro also star. A tight cast portray the investigation into the kidnapping, torture and cover up of Kiki Camarena. Based on Elaine Shannon's book and "Time" magazine article, "Desperados". This is a great film. The precursor to "Traffic".Great Film. I wish NBC would sell this film!

I haven't seen this movie since if first came out. What made me think of it was seeing "Traffic" in which both Stephen Bauer and Benicio Del Torro also act. This mini series really stayed with me, the complexity of the problem and the human cost being very nicely, especially so for a TV produced drama. They are usually very poorly done--not this one. It's hard hitting enough to stay with you, it has for me for a decade. I would think there would be renewed interest in after the success of "Traffic", a film I didn't enjoy but has obtained obvious acclaim.

Living so close to the border of Mexico, I saw that this film did an excellent job in demonstrating how corrupt the Mexican government really is. I highly recommend this film and really wish the full mini series would be released. It is very educational for today's youth.

Seems like the Netflix version of "Kiki's" story is about to be told.

First off, I must confess that I haven't actually seen this film for about 7 or 8 years, but I remember being really moved by it. This film is one of those that you feel really deeply for the characters, and when the clincher comes, it is as though it is actually happening in your life and the emotion you feel is just overwhelming. A really gripping film. If you like your "true stories" (trying not to sound morbid), this is for you.