"Three Burials of Melquiades Estada" is a first rate hit. It is Tommy Lee Jones's first attempt in film direction, and a complete success. Mr. Jones plays Pete Perkins, a south Texas ranch hand who befriends Melquiades Estrada played by Julio Cesar Cedillo. Melquiades is shot and killed by a border patrolman who is captured by Jones's character. Prior to his being shot, Melquiades insists on Pete's promising him to return his body to his home town, Jimenez, in Mexico if should die first in this country with too many billboards. Pete forces the border patrolman to take the body back and the story revolves around their journey. This film is a black human comedy, and one that should not be missed. Jones has accomplished a masterpiece in his first directorial debut, and he must be extremely proud. Hopefull, he will continue to produce this type of compelling, believable film. There's no special effects in this movie just a good story and
great acting, movie of the year for me. 8/10