Review of Che: Part One (2008) by Brian W — 07 Aug 2010

First of all, it could be said that I love romantic(ized) stories. When I heard about this movie I was instantly like "I have to see this!". Not because of the director, the cast or the story itself, but because it is Che Guevara. First time I saw this in a cinema and I couldn't understand jack-sheet. The scenes seemed very detached and the plot jumpy. Nothing seemed to have any relation to any other thing. Now, a year later, I watched the Part 1 again, and I have to say that it was more understandable this time.

When Guevara entered the screen first time I was dazzled: Benicio Del Toro looks so much like him! Same applies to Demian Bichir as Fidel Castro. The film also has its humorous moments, but the main focus is in action and dialogue of the Revolucion. The black-and-white scenes depicting Guevara in the UN are almost like a documentary. The movie also includes some aunthentic clips from the time of the Cuban revolution, however, in my opinion, those clips should be more abundant.

As I said, my main motive wanting to watch these films was the romantic status of Che Guevara as a revolutionist. Other reason might be the history behind the film. As history is never beautiful or flowery, Guevara might not be a person worth of anyone's admire, but he still stands as a symbol or freedom, even if that freedom is through guns and warfare.