"What with all the missives and writs of agenda waiting to be signed, Fever Mounts in El Pao is noticeably burdened by excess paperwork." - Ed Gonzalez

Probably the most straightforward Buñuel film I've seen, both in that it lacks surrealistic flourishes and that it pulls no punches with the political commentary. Very well made and the intrigue works and stays just short of melodrama.

One of Bunuel's most straightforward films and his most openly political. Lacking Bunuel's comic sensibilities or surrealist touch, it's a pretty cut-and-dry affair with few surprises. The social commentary is sharp enough, but the film lacks zing and never seems to get off the ground. The highlight is the sultry performance by Maria Felix as the duplicitous wife of the governor. She gives Bunuel a chance to inject some of his sexual power dynamics. Otherwise, somewhat watchable but unengaging.

Depressing, dark and dirty as hell. It's certainly an Buñuel movie!