Narco-song of Sinaloa (2017)

“Narco-song of Sinaloa” (2017): Directed by Alexey Brazhnikov, this documentary delves into the intricate web of life in Sinaloa, a Mexican state where existence is deeply entwined with the actions of drug lords. The film paints a vivid picture of the region, where local farmers cultivate cannabis and opium poppies, while musicians compose and perform ‘narco corridos’—ballads that glorify the kingpins and their henchmen.

In the aftermath of the Colombian cartels’ downfall in the early 1990s, Mexican gangs seized control of the entire drug supply chain, from plantations to street-level dealers. The CIA identifies Sinaloa as the home of the world’s most powerful drug syndicate. Against this backdrop, the documentary explores the symbiotic relationship between crime, music, and daily life in the region.

Through interviews, visuals, and storytelling, “Narco-song of Sinaloa” sheds light on the complexities of survival, ambition, and cultural expression in a place where the drug trade permeates every facet of existence. The ‘narco corridos’ serve as both a reflection of this reality and a form of artistic resistance—a paradoxical celebration of power and danger.

Director Alexey Brazhnikov skillfully captures the essence of Sinaloa, revealing how its inhabitants navigate a precarious existence shaped by the choices of drug lords. The film invites viewers to contemplate the blurred boundaries between folklore, crime, and identity, all set against the haunting backdrop of the Mexican landscape.

In just under 50 minutes, “Narco-song of Sinaloa” immerses us in a world where survival and creativity intersect, leaving an indelible mark on those who dare to sing the ballads of the underworld.