Review of The Motorcycle Diaries (2004) by Steve S — 14 May 2010

**** (out of four).

One of my favorite films of 2004. Director Walter Salles takes a moment in the life of a young man who would take part years later in a revolution movement that would help shape the future of Cuba.

Gael Garcia Bernal plays Che Guevara as a young man in 1952. Along with his good friend he embarks on a cross continent journey on an old broken down motorcycle. The trip is meant for leisure, but along the way they become caught up in events that would change them and help shape him into the man he will eventually become.

I have like Bernal in movies like "Amoros Perros" and "Y Tu Mama Tambien", but here he gives a defining performance in a role that needs to be played just right. It is moving and complex. The scenery is also spectacular and wonderfully shot. A real special film.