Cuando ¡Viva Villa! es la Muerte is a captivating historical feature film that dramatizes the life of the famous Mexican revolutionary, Francisco "Pancho" Villa. Released in 1960, the esteemed Mexican actor Pedro Armendariz stars as the titular figure, bringing a huge amount of charisma and intensity to the role. He is joined by Alma Rosa Aguirre and Carlos Lopez Moctezuma in this ruthlessly realistic take on Mexican history.

The film starts by delving into the volatile childhood of Villa, given life by the talented Pedro Armendariz. A nuanced exploration of his evolution is traced, from a victim of injustice into a warrior for the oppressed. The narrative offers insight into the personal life and the deeply affecting experiences of Villa that contributed to his transformation into a revolutionary leader. Armendariz's searing performance underscores both the fearlessness and vulnerability of the iconic character, making it a career-defining role.

Alma Rosa Aguirre stars alongside Armendariz as Luz Corral, Pancho Villa's wife. Aguirre's subtly emotive performance amplifies the highs and lows of their complex relationship, providing a necessary human touch to the grand sweep of the story. She masterfully navigals the psychological and emotional layers that form Luz Corral, creating a character that is not only a supportive wife but also an individual with her own desires and dilemmas.

Carlos López Moctezuma plays a crucial part in the film as well, adding a layer of tension to the plot. He serves the role of a villainous figure, against which Villa's strength and courage shine even brighter. His character operates as an essential counterweight to Armendariz's heroic portrayal and ignites many of the story's thrilling conflicts.

Cuando ¡Viva Villa! es la Muerte is not just a biopic but also an intricate depiction of the social and political landscape of the Mexican Revolution. It manages to capture the chaotic era, its turbulence, beauty, hope, and despair, without losing sight of its central character. The film uses the Mexican revolution's historical context to drive the narrative arc of Villa, his growth, and his fight against oppression. The director is successful in blending the personal narrative with the collective history, making the film a compelling watch.

Despite the grim realities it depicts, the movie isn't without moments of levity. The camaraderie among Villa's men, his humorous interactions with his followers, and the occasional jubilous events all serve to lighten the film's mood without diminishing its overall gravity. These moments enhance Villa's character depth, painting him not just as a stern leader, but also as a man capable of love, joy, and playfulness.

Another highlight of the film is its cinematography, which expertly captures the grandeur and harshness of the Mexican landscape, as well as the thrills and struggles of the revolution. From epic battle sequences to intimate character moments, every frame is designed to evoke strong emotions in the viewer. The musical score, blending traditional Mexican folk with dramatic orchestral pieces, complements the visuals and narrative perfectly.

Cuando ¡Viva Villa! es la Muerte stands out in the genre of historical drama not just for its impressive acting performances, but also for its dedication to historical authenticity. The lifestyle, attire, and even idioms used by the characters contribute to creating a convincing representation of the era. The filmmakers' meticulous attention to detail pays off, encapsulating the viewer in the film's world seamlessly.

To sum up, Cuando ¡Viva Villa! es la Muerte is an immersive movie experience that masterfully blends personal and political narrative while offering a riveting portrayal of the Mexican revolution’s iconic figure, Pancho Villa. It is a must-watch for history buffs and fans of Pedro Armendariz, Alma Rosa Aguirre, and Carlos Lopez Moctezuma, who brought their respective characters to life with unparalleled finesse. This film isn't just a historic document but also a testament to the human spirit's resilience and the power of collective action triggered by a charismatic leader.