Howling at the Second Moon

Summary

A smart, witty debut from Venezuelan writer/director Sebastian Gutierrez, Howling at the Second Moon marks the introduction of a major new writer who spins a compelling, totally original border-noir like a master.

From a dusty and faded hotel in Mexico City, Willie is a handyman who specializes in repairing old-timey jukeboxes. When he discovers Alondra, beaten and bloody, in the room next to his, she injects color into his quiet, black-and-white life. And not a small dose of chaos. 

Alondra convinces Willie to help her and her best friend, Luz, rob a cartel coyote’s money and free three migrants who are about to be sold into slavery. Their slim chance of success slips away when Luz’s psychopathic girlfriend, Lael, gets wind of the plan and starts leaving a trail of bodies as a love letter to Luz. 

Before long, both couples are, separately, on the run from the brutal, corrupt Texas Ranger, Elroy Ramirez. Willie and Alondra ride along in a honeymoon glow, while Luz and Lael find themselves in a more sinister light. 

When Lael cuts a deal with Ramirez—kill Alondra and Willie and Luz can go free—any and all bonds of friendship, loyalty, and love will be put to the test.