What Is the Story of There Are No Saints?

In this high-octane feature, Alfonso Pineda Ulloa establishes a narrative structure that follows a classic action blueprint: establishing the protagonist's world, introducing a formidable antagonist, and escalating the stakes. A man is imprisoned for a crime he didn't commit. When his wife is murdered and his son kidnapped and taken to Mexico, he devises an elaborate and dangerous plan to rescue his son and avenge the murder. The film balances spectacular set pieces with character moments for José María Yázpik, ensuring the action serves the story rather than overwhelming it.

How Is There Are No Saints Structured?

• Opening Hook: There Are No Saints opens with an explosive sequence that immediately establishes the stakes, introducing José María Yázpik as Neto Niente in the midst of conflict. Alfonso Pineda Ulloa wastes no time setting up the action blueprint, and over its 105-minute runtime, the pacing proves deliberate.
• Character Arc: Character development is present but somewhat formulaic, following familiar patterns without adding fresh perspectives to the genre.
• Climax & Resolution: The final confrontation falls somewhat short of expectations, with José María Yázpik at the center of the action. Alfonso Pineda Ulloa's staging of the climax raises the stakes to their highest point.