15 Best Robert Rodriguez Movies To Watch After ‘The Book of Boba Fett’

The Book of Boba Fett was spearheaded by Robert Rodriguez, who happens to be a longtime Star Wars fan, and waiting for the next installment may be unbearable. Thankfully, there are quite a few classic Rodriguez movies to keep you occupied after the Book of Boba Fett, including action-packed dramas, adventurous sci-fi productions, and even fun fantasy films.

15. Machete Kills (2013)

Robert Rodriguez revived one of the most well-received masterpieces, Machete, by bringing back Danny Trejo for a sequel. The sequel, formally titled Machete Kills, sparked immense excitement for those who love action and dramatic plots.

The film starred Machete and Sartana, played by Hollywood star Jessica Alba, who embark on an epic mission to capture devious weapons dealers. However, things take a turn for the worst when Sartana is betrayed and Machete is arrested.

Machete is set to be executed but manages to evade his fate as the result of a deal offered by the President of the United States, played by the infamous Charlie Sheen. The President offers Machete U.S citizenship in exchange for the successful completion of an incredibly dangerous mission.

The main reason why Machete Kills is ranked last on this list is that it was undoubtedly overshadowed by its predecessor. But, this movie is still worth a watch if you’re a fan of the Machete premise, and the fact that it stars Mel Gibson as a deranged villain makes the plot that much more interesting!

14. The Adventures of Sharkboy and Lavagirl (2005)

While many viewers have come to the conclusion that The Adventures of Sharkboy and Lavagirl was a bad movie, this isn’t quite the case. It was definitely not the best of the bunch, but it was a fairly good film for its time and is still loved by quite a few devoted Rodriguez fans.

Robert Rodriguez stated that he wanted to create a fun, adventurous movie that could be enjoyed by younger viewers, particularly his children. So, this film production has quite a special place in Rodriguez’s career and heart.

The plot involves a young boy who has his Dream Journal stolen by a bully. But, two of the characters from his dreams come to life, as they need his help to save the dream world. Starring Taylor Lautner and Taylor Dooley, this film is full of whimsical moments and classic comedy.

13. Sin City: A Dame to Kill For (2014)

Following in the footsteps of the original Sin City, Sin City: A Dame to Kill For was jam-packed with thrills and action. But, it did see a few shifts and unfortunate recasts, and Clive Owen replaced Josh Brolin as Dwight.

The film stars quite a few Hollywood icons, including Jessica Alba, Bruce Willis, Mickey Rourke, and Eva Green, which definitely adds some fantastic acting and immersion for viewers. However, Robert Rodriguez simply couldn’t beat the original Sin City with this sequel.

Viewers felt that the entire movie somehow lacked the spark that was so evident throughout the original, which left them feeling slightly underwhelmed. Still, this is an epic production that would be loved by anyone who adores action movies.

12. Spy Kids 2: The Island of Lost Dreams (2002)

The Spy Kids saga was cherished by countless Rodriguez fans worldwide, featuring a ton of action and adventure mixed with loads of sci-fi and fantasy. Rodriguez created many Spy Kids movies, some of which were not as enjoyable as others.

But, Spy Kids 2: The Island of Lost Dreams, has become a classic, featuring the loveable characters, humor, and plot twists we all love to see. The movie revolves around a brand new child spy program at the Organization of Super Spies (OSS).

The plot kicks into high gear when things take a turn for the worst, starring the infamous child agents Carmen and Juni. Despite being legends throughout the universe’s storyline, these two talented kids have a ton of work and challenges ahead of them after Juni is framed for a crime.

11. Spy Kids 3D: Game Over (2003)

On the rare occasion, a sequel may do better than one of its predecessors, and Spy Kids 3D: Game Over is a perfect example. New technology and trends were emerging during the time of its release, and Rodriguez got the timing just right in jumping onto the 3D craze.

This movie took the 3D feel to a new level, using visual effects to make objects and characters jump out of the screen. As with all Spy Kids movies, the plot involves a villainous mastermind, played by the iconic Sylvester Stallone, with a malicious plan to take over the world.

Carmen and Juni are sent to infiltrate a virtual reality game, accompanied by unexpected teammates and a whirlwind of unique trials. This movie is a great choice for anyone who loves the fantastical and sci-fi side of Rodriguez productions.

10. Once Upon A Time In Mexico (2003)

Robert Rodriguez completed the El Mariachi trilogy with Once Upon A Time In Mexico, starring Antonio Banderas as Mariachi. The movie focuses on mariachi as he is sent on a dangerous mission, revealing a few key plot twists since the second installment.

The premise reveals that Mariachi’s wife, Carolina, passed away between the first and second movie. Riddled with grief and questions, he seeks revenge with the help of a CIA agent, played by Johnny Depp.

The sequel is still overshadowed by the original Mariachi but flaunts a ton of enjoyable and thrilling moments. The entire plot is filled with emotion-driven action, further enhanced by legendary cast members.

9. Machete (2010)

Just about all Robert Rodriguez fans have either watched or heard of Machete, as this is one of the most iconic films ever created. Although it rose to fame quite quickly, the film actually started out in a strange and unexpected way, when Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino produced Grindhouse.

Fans loved the idea of Danny Trejo as Machete, and they desperately wanted to see the movie. So, the production of Machete was actually sparked by the fans themselves, and Rodriguez had no choice but to give them exactly what they wanted.

The movie revolves around Machete, a bold and lethal character who is out to kill almost everyone. It’s full of action, brutality, and stars Steven Seagal as an epic mustache-twirling villain.

8. Planet Terror (2007)

Planet Terror is a grindhouse movie, created with the intention of paying homage to vintage and old-school productions. It’s a perfect choice for anyone who appreciates classic action and thrill, as the film perfectly embodies many of the time’s most well-loved aspects.

Starring Rose McGowan and Freddy Rodriguez, the movie revolves around a go-go dancer who finds herself having to battle zombie-style mutants in a small Texas town. While there are a few other survivors to aid their quest, they seem to be the last hope for humanity.

There’s plenty of ridiculously over-the-top action, including a limb being replaced with a grenade launcher and assault rifle! Watch this bombshell protagonist defeat classic zombies in unbelievable ways with the help of her mechanic ex-boyfriend.

7. Spy Kids (2001)

The original Spy Kids movie is still the best of the entire franchise, despite there being four releases. This movie marks the beginning of what would be an irreplaceable saga, embodying a dream that many people had as a child.

Carmen and Juni discover that their parents have seemingly vanished into thin air, and begin investigating in an attempt to find them. However, they soon come to know that their parents are super-secret spies, and assume that their disappearance must be related.

They get help from their trusted uncle and others, as they prepare themselves for the ultimate rescue mission. As it turns out, being a spy seems to run in the family, and the kids enjoy their new adventures far more than they expected.

6. The Faculty (1998)

Robert Rodriguez was restricted to low-budget films for quite a fair portion of his career, and The Faculty was the first time he got the chance to create a studio movie. While he did return to independent filmmaking after this production, this movie became a popular teen horror at the time.

The premise revolves around a group of students who team up against their teachers after they become possessed by extraterrestrial lifeforms. With a blend of sci-fi, horror, and brave young heroes, what’s not to love?

The movie had an iconic cast, including Josh Hartnett, Jordana Brewster, Clea DuVall, and a young Elijah Wood as the main protagonists. The crew of antagonists also featured some well-known names, including Famke Janssen, Piper Laurie, Robert Patrick, and Bebe Neuwirth.

5. El Mariachi (1992)

El Mariachi, a low-budget indie film, marked the beginning of Robert Rodriguez’s career. Robert Rodriguez saved up a few thousand dollars just so he could produce this film, in the hope that it would be well-received enough to be released on DVD.

What Rodriguez didn’t know was that this iconic film would land him a life-long career in the filmmaking industry, making this movie truly special for Rodriguez and his fans. The film is based in Mexico, focusing on a young Mariachi who ends up having his guitar case switched with a case loaded with weapons.

Mariachi then has to venture on a dangerous and unexpected path, as gangsters track him down in search of the misplaced guns. This film is packed with action and surprises, and despite its low budget and age, it still remains one of Rodriguez’s most iconic masterpieces.

4. Alita: Battle Angel (2019)

Robert Rodriguez had been wanting to create an animation-based film ever since the release of Spy Kids 4, and he finally got his chance with the creation of Alita: Battle Angel. To make this sci-fi adventure movie possible, he teamed up with Avatar‘s creator, James Cameron, and the animation itself is spectacular as a result.

The premise revolves around a mysterious and unique cyborg named Alita, played by Rosas Salazar. After being left in a junkyard, she is found and repaired by an inquisitive scientist, played by Christoph Waltz.

Alita has little recollection of her past, or how she landed in a junkyard. But, it’s clear that she is under threat for an unknown reason. Still, she attempts to live a normal life and ends up participating in a racing sport called Motorball.

Things take a turn when a revolution begins around her, shaking the foundations of the relative social norms and the city itself. She ends up fighting for her life as she unveils more about herself and her past with the help of a new partner.

Alita is Robert Rodriguez’s highest-grossing production, and it quickly became a new personal favorite for many Rodriguez fans. This movie is filled with action, fascinating plot twists, and thrilling cliffhangers, and it definitely deserves a watch!

3. Desperado (1995)

Desperado was Robert Rodriguez’s first big production after his debut film, El Mariachi. The movie was intended to be a sequel to his debut, flaunting a professional cast and a much higher budget to match.

The movie features an iconic duo – Antonio Banderas, filling the role of Mariachi, and Salma Hayak who plays the role of Mariachi’s girlfriend. Additional well-known names within the movie’s cast include Cheech Marin and Steve Buschemi as Mariachi’s friends.

2. From Dusk Till Dawn (1996)

From Dusk Till Dawn was a Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarintino production, as Tarintino primarily starred in the film while Rodriguez handled the directing. The film combines the best of both icon’s styles, focusing on Tarintino-styled crime drama in the first half and Rodriguez-styled vampire lore towards the end.

This movie is packed with tons of action, topped with some fantasy and thrillful moments. The entire atmosphere is further enhanced by extremely talented cast members, such as George Clooney who stars alongside Tarintino.

1. Sin City (2005)

At the top of the list is the infamous Sin City, a well-known favorite for all Rodriguez fans. The movie was based on Frank Miller’s ground-breaking and graphic novel. But, Rodriguez created something truly unique in his interpretation of the novel.

Rodriguez decided to film the entire production using a green screen in order to truly capture the environment described in the book. Scenes from the book were edited behind the actors, staying true to the ‘comic’ feel throughout the entire film.

The movie involves individual stories, each of which focuses on a different character. The main characters include a police officer tracking down a serial killer, played by Bruce Willis, a tough guy running from the cops, played by Mickey Rourke, and a man on a revenge mission, played by Clive Owen.

The unique complexity of merged storylines and the use of comic-book style editing created something truly special, making it a legendary film that is still enjoyable to this day. Sin City is a great choice for those who love detailed premises, plot twists, clashing motives, and the classic brutality of Rodriguez movies.

The Book of Boba Fett’s release has expanded possibilities for the Star Wars universe, flaunting many of Robert Rodriguez’s classic characteristics. Fortunately, there are plenty of Rodriguez productions to binge on, whether you’re into fantasy, sci-fi, action, drama, violence, or everything in between!