Sunday, March 1, 2009

Che



Che is a two-part 2008 biopic about Marxist revolutionary Ernesto "Che" Guevara directed by Steven Soderbergh and starring Benicio del Toro as the title character. Utilizing a cinéma vérité stylistic approach, the pictorial diptych comprises two merged films entitled The Argentine and Guerrilla. Each part is intentionally illustrated with differing approaches to narrative linearity, camerawork, and aspect ratios; with such duality intended to be reflective of the two military campaigns divergent outcomes. The Argentine (part one) focuses on the Cuban revolution, from the moment Fidel Castro, Guevara and other revolutionaries landed on the Caribbean island, until they successfully toppled the dictatorship of Fulgencio Batista two years later. Guerilla (part two), meanwhile focuses on Che's futile attempt to bring revolution to Bolivia and his early demise.

The film itself over four hours long is unfortunately boring and long. The cinematography reminds me of Oliver Stone's JFK. Besides Del Toro who is just magnificent once again, the supporting cast was weak and the film felt more like a documentary. We do not feel that any relationships we're established. The female lead in the first part is not believable as a guerilla soldier. I would of loved to see more of the relationship between Che and Castro. The second part was somewhat better, the suspense was good but still did not come as important enough.

Maybe this will be good for someone who as no idea of who Che Guevara was but from my point of view, I learned nothing new. So I would suggest you pass on that one and keep your money for something else.

Peace & I'm Out.

1 comment:

Unknown said...

ha ha. I'm glad I saved 4 hours of my life. Motorcycle Diaries kicked ass and was sufficient, oh ya, and my trip to Cuba. If I hear Guantanamera again (yes, even the Wyclef version)I will freak out =)