Narco Cultura 2013

Narco Cultura is a documentary film directed by cinematographer Shaul Schwarz that dissects the Sinaloa cartel’s involvement in the Mexican drug war through two contrasting narratives: the stories focus on both Richi Soto, a Juárez crime scene investigator, and Edgar Quintero, a Los Angeles narcocorrido musician. The film’s juxtaposition between the Soto and Quintero highlights the normalization of cartel violence in media representation throughout the documentary. The documentary’s enduring impact lies in its ability to challenge viewers to confront truths about the ongoing widespread societal impact of the international war on drugs in communities.

The film follows Richi Soto as he works in Juárez. In the documentary, Juarez is referred to as the “murder capital of the world” (Narco Cultura, 2013). As a crime scene investigator, Soto’s role exposes him to the cruel realities of the drug war’s impact through corruption, impunity, and the constant threats to his life. Richi is often filmed concealing his identity with a mask while working high-profile cartel cases. This measure keeps Soto safe from any aggressive retaliation from drug cartels while he lives in Mexico. Despite facing ongoing challenges, Soto stays determined and dedicated to his work because he feels a strong responsibility to help his community. His narrative highlights the impact the drug war has had on law enforcement support in regions controlled by cartels.

The second narrative is about Edgar Quintero, a father and talented musician who stands out in the vibrant narcocorrido scene. Through his music and determination to succeed, he gains popularity by narrating the tales of drug cartel lords into ballads—in a captivating style that is trending on social media platforms. This highlights the complex ethical ties between cartels and the lasting impact in surrounding communities. As the lead singer of the group Buknas de Culiacán, Edgar writes and performs songs that celebrate the daring and often violent actions of the cartels. The documentary shares his journey through increasing popularity among audiences in Mexico and the United States. Quintero’s music reflects a macabre vision of success, where power and wealth are achieved through violence and crime. Quintero’s narrative underscores how narcocorridos contribute to the romanticization of cartel culture by presenting traffickers as modern folk heroes in music videos and performing concerts.

Between two worlds—Soto’s perilous situation in Juárez and Quintero’s affluent lifestyle in Los Angeles offers a dramatic dichotomy between the ongoing violence in border towns and its intersection with capitalism in America. Narco Cultura critiques the normalization of violence through this documentary while interviews and immersive footage compare the more significant implications on society.