EL TOPO Jodorowsky's messianic and mystical western

Some of the strangest scenes in movie history, Jodorowsky twists the spaghetti western into a weird allegory of the spiritual journey to enlightenment. With its combination of surreal imagery and assault on the ideals of the Western, EL TOPO may appear to be equal parts Luis Bunuel and Sam Peckinpah, but it's all Alejandro Jodorowsky. In addition to his directing duties, Jodorowsky contributes to the film's writing, music, editing, and costumes, as well as starring as El Topo (the Mole). El Topo journeys across the desert to battle a group of gunfighters, but it's not the plot that's important in this midnight movie classic. The masterful blend of brutal violence and beautiful images make Jodorowsky's film essential viewing for anyone looking beyond the offerings of the megaplex. Decades have passed since its first screening, but EL TOPO hasn't lost any of its ability to shock and amaze.