Review of Che: Part One (2008) by Jim H — 15 Nov 2010

Note: this review applies to both parts of Che; I don't think these can be interpreted as separate films even though Flixster has different entries for each part.

There's been a lot of debate about whether or not this film is thesis-driven. That is to say that critics and fans have spilled ink over Soderbergh's intent: was this an "objective" (true objectivity is impossible) portrayal, or did he attempt to glorify Che? I for one wish he would've made a decision because the film plays like it is searching for direction. It does display Che as a soldier and a harsh critic of U.S. policies, and one of the film's achievements is its ability to convey Che's charm. We understand why soldiers would be willing to follow a fighter with his passion and resolve. The first episode often depicts Che as a healer, not a fighter. All of this supports the stance that this is a thesis-driven film. However, the "style" (this, according to Sidney Lumet, is the most misused word since "love") is detached, like a bad PBS documentary. Also, aside from a few miners in Bolivia, we don't get to see the reasons for Che's revolution; oppressed, huddled masses would support the idea that the film is thesis-driven, and these are absent. And oddly enough, after spending over four hours with Che, I can't say that I know him that well. Del Toro's performance is unquestionably good - I never doubted his verisimilitude - but the script keeps him emotionally distant. We never see him in a moment of triumph or weakness (except physical weakness caused by Che's asthma) that might endear him to us. I think of Malcolm X and how I mourned for a man who I grew to admire and respect with/for his numerous flaws; I didn't feel the same way at the end of Che.

Also, this film is quite like Syriana in its lack of explanation. I don't know the history all that well, and even with what I do know, I got a little lost here and there.

Overall, I feel smarter having watched it, but this medicine needed a little more sugar to qualify as engaging entertainment.