El Topo
1970 · Movie · NR · 125 min · ★ 7.1 · 73% critics
A mysterious gunfighter sets out across a harsh desert with his young child, beginning a strange rite of passage. Along the way, he confronts a series of formidable masters and unsettling encounters that push him toward a profound, symbolic transformation, blending Western action with mysticism and surreal imagery.
Also known as The Mole
Where to watch
Not currently available to stream in the US.
2 hours to watch.
Not currently available to stream, rent, or buy in the US.
Streaming availability and prices may be inaccurate or change — verify with the provider before subscribing.
unSUB's subscription recommendations are informational only, not financial advice.
More value for your money
Similar titles, ranked by watch-hours per subscription dollar.
Details
- Years
- 1970
- Release date
- 1970-12-18
- Language
- Spanish
- Rated
- NR
- Runtime
- 125 min
- Critic score
- 73/100
- TMDB rating
- 7.1/10 (662 votes)
- Budget
- $400,000
About
You’ll likely enjoy this if you’re up for a surreal, mystical Western packed with shocking imagery and open-to-interpretation meaning, similar to The Holy Mountain; Not for you if you want a clear plot, subtle content, or a gentle pace.
Pros: unforgettable surreal imagery; hypnotic cult atmosphere; bold mystical western | Cons: confusing abstract story; extreme violence and nudity; can feel boring
Themes
- mass murder
- symbolism
- mystic
- surreal
- symbol
- god
- confrontation
- desert
- religious cult
- gunfighter
- journey
- spiritual quest
- +5 more
Awards & recognition
- International Submission to the Academy Awards · 1972 · nominated
Cast & crew
Alejandro Jodorowsky
as El Topo
Brontis Jodorowsky
as Son of El Topo
- ML
Mara Lorenzio
as Marah / The Woman
David Silva
as The Colonel
- PR
Paula Romo
as Desconocida
- JL
Jacqueline Luis
as Mujercita
- RJ
Robert John
as Adult Son of El Topo
- HM
Héctor Martínez
as Maestro 1
Juan José Gurrola
as Maestro 2
- VF
Víctor Fosado
as Maestro 3
Directed by Alejandro Jodorowsky