 
The Motorcycle Diaries (Full Screen Edition)
Average Rating: 4.0 Total Reviews: 222
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 On: 2008-04-14
La pelÃcula resulta bastante decepcionante porque retrata con una ingenuidad sorprendente la toma de conciencia de uno de los mas nefastos fanáticos que ha padecido latinoamerica. El personaje de Guevara resulta endeble y caricaturesco al extremo, con una carga de arrogancia insoportable.
Si eres un extranjero que no conoce nada de la historia de sudamerica como y estas habituado al folklore revolucionario que existe al respecto, como la música del francés Manu Chao, tal ves la disfrutes.
Lo único rescatable son la actuación del compañero de Guevara, Alberto Granado, quien aporta humor y el toque de humanidad ausente en el protagonista, junto a los bellÃsimos paisajes de America Latina. Pero para eso mejor es ver un documental de viajes.
 On: 2008-03-26
When I visited South America on my own extended trip a few years ago, I was amazed how many times I saw pictures of Ché Guevara everywhere I went....cafes, outdoor bulletin boards, art galleries, even department stores. By now having read his diary several times, I can understand his impact, and the 2004 film surpasses my expectations on almost every level. It is perceptively directed, beautifully photographed and wondrously acted by a cast headed by two charismatic actors who tap deep into the hearts and souls of their characters. Whereas the book is more observational, the movie provides a more involving feeling in its portrait of a young man on the brink of his political awakening. It starts out somewhat deceptively as a comic buddy picture with the young Ernesto Guevara (pre-Ché), a medical student, leaving his family and accompanying his seemingly more worldly pal Alberto Granado, a biochemist, on a dilapidated 1939 Norton motorbike traversing South America from their native Buenos Aires to Caracas.
It is obvious what Albertos hormonally charged intentions are on this months-long journey, but at 23, Ernesto is at a more sensitive juncture in his life where his encounters and observations have a deeper impact on his ideology. What I really like about the film is how it changes in tone and texture as the boys hunt for adventure evolves into life-changing experiences for both of them. The motorbike acts as a metaphor for this change, as it unsurprisingly breaks down forcing them to open their eyes to the poverty and quiet struggle of the local people in each of the countries they visit. The story winds through wintry Patagonia, the blistering Atacama Desert, the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu and several towns in between. But the most touching passage takes place at the San Pablo leper colony in the Peruvian Amazon basin, where Ernesto bonds deeply with the lepers to the chagrin of the local nuns. His night swim across the Amazon, struggling for air through his asthma, is a powerful scene among many in this subtly potent film.
As he has proven with his wonderful Central Station, director Walter Salles has an acute ability to connect his characters to their settings in deeply emotional ways. He is the ideal choice to guide this road movie. As Guevara, Gael Garcia Bernal transcends his Tiger Beat, teen heartthrob looks and delivers a deeply touching performance, as he grows from a big city innocent to a haunted young man ready to take on a greater cause than his medical career. He does an especially strong job in conveying his characters unblinking honesty and displaying unexpected acts of rage and compassion. Just as good is Rodrigo de la Serna in his feature film debut as Granado, effortlessly showing his characters bravado and humor while finding his own bumpy way in the world. His reactions to his buddys political declaration at the birthday party, and to his own feelings during their goodbye at the end, are among the most poignant moments in the movie. In fact, much of the films power comes from their palpable chemistry and unforced rapport. They are instantly and completely believable as best friends. And much more than the book, the film builds a solid emotional bridge between the young innocent and the Communist revolutionary Guevara was to become.
If you are not aware of his fate, it is briefly summarized in subtitles at the end, and the coda with the real Granado is moving. While this may be the most glowing portrayal of a Communist-in-the-making since Warren Beattys film about John Reed, Reds, dont let that stop you from seeing this mesmerizing work. This is a wonderfully heartfelt film. In the 2005 DVD package, there are three extended deleted scenes included, none indispensable but still valuable for the additional context they provide to an essentially episodic movie. I particularly liked the sequence with the blind truck driver risking the lives of the two vagabonds as he swerves perilously on a treacherous mountain road. The obligatory making-of documentary is helpful, and includes comments from Salles, screenwriter Jose Rivera and executive producer Robert Redford. There is also a couple of brief Spanish-language TV interviews with Bernal and a quick interview with the films composer Gustavo Santaolalla.
 On: 2008-03-15
My grilfriend is Mexican,,, and so she had to help me keep up.... i had heard so many good things about this movie,,, but I thought it was in english,,,, it wasnt
On: 2008-02-15
I must start by admitting my lack of knowledge on the South American countries, an oversurging dyslexia and my bankrupt knowledge on capitalism and communism. The film has two characters who set out to travel on a bike. They run into a zillion charactes, most of whom made me twich and cringe. The central character is a nice guy, his not so fat friend is supposed to be fat and the more masculine of the two and less liked. What unites them is their daunting sense of adventure. Thats the story for you.
The film has no strengths worth writing about in my review. I liked the Black Jack scene for one. Ive mentioned some weaknesses but overall, I felt the film was too self-indulgent, maybe because it was subtitled but Ive seen many foreign language films and dealt much better. I avoided this film for a long time. I presume some of you reading this film have done the same. My sincere advise - DO NOT WATCH unless its on HBO or on MGM in the year 2021.
On: 2008-02-02
Conocia muy poco de Ernesto antes de convertirse en el icono que fue, que es y que seguira siendo, quizas algunos no esten muy de acuerdo con muchas cosas, pero lo que si puedo decir, pese a todo es que la experiencia que el vivio fue determinante en su vida. La historia nos lleva de punta a punta como fue esta travesia, las carencias que pasaron junto a su companero Alberto Granado, la gente que conocieron en su camino, los sentimientos e ideales que se empezaron a marcar poco a poco dentro de ellos, y porsupuesto mas en Ernesto. En general admiro como estos dos jovenes en su tiempo tomaron tal decision, de adentrarse en la hermosa America Latina y simplemente querer conocerla sin saber que su viaje se tornaria de esa manera y que los enriqueceria tanto. A mi como Latinoamerica me estremece ver que esas realidades que estos dos muchachos conocieron en su tiempo siguen pasando hasta ahora en este siglo 21. Una pelicula que recomiendo ver a todo el mundo, te muestra realidades e injusticias, te hace pensar que mas alla de las fronteras de cualquier lugar hay realidades que duelen y que siguen pasando.
 On: 2008-01-18
The title is miss leading. This flik has little or nothing to do with motorcycles or anything else. I wish I had known ahead of time that it was a forign film with hard to read captions. Save your money, I tossed my copy in the trash.
 On: 2008-01-18
I was somewhat sceptical before watching this film; it is after all about a Bolshevik mass murderer, and not just a travelling diary. Turned out to be a great movie, though, with a few reservations. The Euro-Argentineans of upper middle class, Ernesto (the later infamous "Che Guevara" which Im sure youve seen confused fools wear on their t-shirts) and Alberto, decide to travel up and down the South-American continent without any money to speak of and just their motorcycle. Not long into the movie, the bike is lost, so its really more of a hitchhiking diary. The two guys first visit Ernestos girlfriend to say goodbye, before they head north. Most people in their ignorance think South-America is an area only inhabited by horribly mixes of every racial type, but both Argentina and Chile is about 70-90 % European. Note the blue eyes, noble features and fair hair of the two actors, for example.
They are both more or less licensed doctors, and are going to use their skills in helping defeating the horrible disease lepra. What I dont get is why two guys with a seemingly bright future and good families behind them would throw away their lives in "helping" people they have no relation to whatsoever, to the detriment of their own people? The film gives a marvellous picture of both the breathtaking nature of the area as well as a period and place we dont hear much about up here. The acting is very well done, and even though the film is quite a bit biased to the "left", it is fairly objective politically.
It might be a bit "slow" for some people, since theres not really much "happening" at all, but I did enjoy it a lot myself. In explaining why this charismatic man became a political fool, it does a poor job. Learned in many ways, instead of focusing on his caste and his peoples will-to-life, he sided with the lowest of the low.
If you want a good and entertaining movie from South America in the 1950s, look no further, but be aware of the distortions.
On: 2008-01-14
Well done and interesting film offering accurate background on the subject: Che. A favorite of my students.
On: 2008-01-03
This was based off the book by Che, which was the diaries of his adventure through South America. Not only does it open you eyes and give you a brief rush of being a revolutionary, it makes view how not just the status of the desperately poor is today in the United States but in the rest of the world. This was before he met Fidel Castro and definitely before the Cuban Revolution which overthrew Batista. I enjoyed studying Che, however after the Cuban Revolution he became cocky by publishing manuscripts on how he revolutionized Guerrilla Warfare, which ultimately lead to his capture and death.
The film is in spanish, no setting for an English audio, there are subtitles in english. Must be viewed multiple time (like many films) to understand the message.
On: 2008-01-01
Sadly disappointed in this epic adventure movie. Having read several accounts of the trip and part of the book, I looked forward to an outstanding motorcycle/life adventure. Instead, every other word was vulgar and totally uncalled for in the story. This is a worthless piece of trash. I had hoped to share it with friends and family as we have done the Long Way Round and other movies, but that will never happen.
On: 2007-12-07
Motorcycle Diaries offers more insight as a lens into the mindset of the Pan-American political left than it does into the formative years of a violent Marxist revolutionary. The film has a high level of production quality. Good, sympathetic acting is shown against a compelling cinemascape of a vast, untamed land. Che Guevara is shown as well motivated and inspired by his love for the people of the land and hatred of injustice. Good intentions apparently explain and excuse all, else how can you explain the deification of a violent executioner? The film excuses and does not explain Ches own injustices. There is a certain arrogance in the willingness to impose ones own political views by deadly force that is never revealed or addressed. At one level, I enjoyed the story being told by the movie, but I could never reconcile the movie I saw with the history I knew. Motorcycle Diaries fails in its ambition to explain (justify?) Che Guevara. But it succeeds in extending the pro-revolutionary brand represented by the ubiquitous Che t-shirts. Is this just celebrating rejection of the status quo? Is any change better than the current inequities? This fiction ultimately left me unsatisfied.
On: 2007-12-03
Dumb me!!!
I should read more reviews before I purchsing the movie.
I though this is a movie about touring the beautiful South America with motorcycles. I did not even know who they portry in the movie. Then I found out when I was watching half way of the movie,I suddenly felt I saw this movie before! Ha, It is a communist propoganda! Somebody must learnt from either USSR or Chinese communist propogada machines to fool inocent people to believe those mass murderers are poor peoples heros. I lived in Communist country for many years and this is exactly how they portry the dictators as heros who care about poor people. There are plenty of such movies in USSR and China to portry the dictators sush as Stalin and Mao in the exact format. Do not fooled by the movie.
I gave it a one star because I can not gave it zero or negative.
The beautiful scenes of the beautiful South America and the mass murderers cant be put together.
On: 2007-12-02
Dumb me!!!
I should read more reviews before I purchsing the movie.
I though this is a movie about touring the beautiful South America with motorcycles. I did not even know who they portry in the movie. Then I found out when I was watching half way of the movie,I suddenly felt I saw this movie before! Ha, It is a communist propoganda! Somebody must learnt from either USSR or Chinese communist propogada machines to fool inocent people to believe those mass murderers are poor peoples heros. I lived in Communist country for many years and this is exactly how they portry the dictators as heros who care about poor people. There are plenty of such movies in USSR and China to portry the dictators sush as Stalin and Mao in the exact format. Do not fooled by the movie.
I gave it a one star because I can not gave it zero or negative.
The beautiful scenes of the beautiful South America and the mass murderers cant be mixed together.
by: alvinmg On: 2007-11-04
Perhaps, it might be a tall order to say that Motorcycle Diaries is akin to Buddhas searching for answers of why there is much suffering in this world. During his journey with his buddy in the American continent, he saw much oppression and injustice. One reviewer commented that this movie doesnt answer why Che decided to use violence when he could have used the non-violence approach as undertaken by Ghandi. In fact, in a poignant scene as both buddies were at Macchu Picchu site, Che commented that a revolution without firepower wouldnt work. He saw what the Spanish had done to the continent and perhaps, that conditioned him to take arms eventually. I guess that a book is subject to open interpretations and the Director is intelligent enough not to hype up the myth thats Che and simply portrays Che as a man in this coming of age movie. A profound and heart moving movie that shall be seen on the big screen.
On: 2007-10-22
I think I would have given this movie four stars, if I had not known who the main character would end up being and fighting for. Acting is good, photography is splendid. The gradual transformation of Che is well constructed. The characters stay in the clinic for lepers is convincing (with the exception of the sequence with Che swimming to the other side) and touching.
The "politics" is dealt with badly. The anti-capitalist dialogues are silly and very superficial, and I do not write this because I think they are baseless (I am sure they are not). The last sentence we read on the screen is the culmination of this distorted view of Che. I realize that this is the story of Che before he became Che, and so it could be judged without reference to what came in this storys future, but then the director should have taken care of sparing us the hagiographical conclusion about "poor" Che being murdered with the cooperation of the CIA. This is what really debased the whole movie to me.
I do have sympathy for someone who abandons a quiet and pampered life to fight for worthy ideals, but we should not forget that these ideas are what created Fidel Castros Cuba (or North Korea, or Cambodia). Let us not fool ourselves with the illusion that "we" (the West, the US, whatever) are good and well-intentioned and democratic and what have you, but let us also not forget what was on the other side of the cold war.
I saw this movie shortly after seeing "The lives of others" (about the "good" life in the ex-communist Germany) and this latter movie is just so much better.
On: 2007-10-17
Motorcycle diaries for me is one of the greatest movies i have seen personally. I was really moved by the south american scenery and also moved by certain themes like injustice and the segragation of the health workers from the lepers in the leper colony. This movie touched on ideas of politics, friendship, money, sacrafices, love. I could feel the emotions of the che and granado like if i was connected with them. I never really cry when i watch movies but, I cried at the end because both men like true friends have to part ways, and sometimes parting ways is part of life, Che and Granado had seperate paths that went pararell from the begining. This movie is not worth a rental, its really worth owning. Its just sad that much bone headed bush loving Americans, espically those that arent pro Isreal dont give Che Guevara recgonition besides his face on a tshirt. Che is worth more then a tshirt even though che was an poltical enemy of America. Just buy this movie and you will be moved!
On: 2007-10-14
I must admit that, when I started college in 1967, I was a product of media prejdice. The death of Che Guevara that year meant little to me because he was "a bad guy". A later film, "Che" (1969 with Omar Sharif) was such a bomb, Che has never been given the recognition that is due. "The Motorcycle Diaries" is a well-made film by the brilliant Walter Salles, and stars the excellent Gael Garcia Bernal and Rodrigo de la Serna as Che and his good friend, Alberto Granado, as they set out to discover the South American countryside, from Argentina, to Chile & Peru, ending in Colombia; the film ends there. This is a buddy movie, with humor, adventure and purpose. Ches discovery of mans inhumanity to man started with this trip, and the rest is history. Breath-taking cinematography by Eric Gautier, and an unobtrusive but effective score by Gustavo Santaolalla add to the enjoyment. The two leads have wonderful chemistry, and it all comes together for an exciting ride, with an award-winning script by Jose Rivera. The DVD extras are insightful, especially noting that Ches daughter, Aleila, and Alberto Granado himself both give their absolute blessing to the proceedings. Whatever your opinion of Che Guevara, I recommend you see this film to gain a great perspective of the man and his ensuing motivations.
On: 2007-09-22
This movie was a moving heartfelt adventure road movie. Two men set out to traverse the continent of South America the long way, that is north and south, on a used motorcycle. The scenes are beautiful and the people that they meet even more so. This movie is not political and does not want you to take any view on the labor party or any other party. It is just a buddy story about two guys challenging their self emotionally, physically, but most of all spiritually. You want to weep at the ending because their adventure is over
On: 2007-09-16
Oh man,do I hate reviews like this!
THE MOTORCYCLE DIARIES is one tremendously engaging film about the early life and travels of who was eventually to become "Che" Guevara, notorious revolutionary and mass murderer.Guevara and and his best bud Alberto Granado set out on an old motorcycle to travel the South American continent.The story is funny,exhilarating and rather sentimental to the point of winning one over to love and embrace the youth that Guevara was, and to not acknowledge the monster that he became.You will be lulled with gorgeous cinematography of Argentina,Peru,Chile,Colombia and Venezuela; you will meet the oppressed and disenfranchised of the Latin Americas;you will see events that formed a young mans ideals.....or will you? This film is excellent....but I caution you to not accept the information presented here as gospel.If you dont watch out, you will think that Guevara ends up a true champion of the people who loved lepers as much as he loved the freedom of all people.NOT SO! If anything this movie leaves you with, it will be the single thought,"What went wrong?" that this simplistic youth could end up like Hitler or Manson.5 stars for an engrossing film,but only with the understanding that what you see is romanticized fiction at best.
On: 2007-09-07
I have reviewed a biography of the life and works of the Latin American communist revolutionary (I think that is how he wanted to see himself rather than simply as an Argentine) Ernesto "Che Guevara elsewhere in this space and make no bones about my admiration for his revolutionary skill and ardor while also noting my political differences. In a world that in the year 2007 is filled to the brim with fake `heroes that todays youth are pushed to emulate Che was the real thing. A man of revolutionary conviction. The film under review, however, is a little difference take on Ches life from a time before he became a world-known revolutionary fighter and icon. Apparently this film is based on his diaries written while he and another footloose companion were traveling the highways and byways of Latin America on motorcycle, foot, boat, cart or by any other mode of transportation that would move them forward. During that fateful trip middle class professional (doctor) Che has his eyes opened to the geographic beauty of his continent but also to the grim underside of life for the masses. We, unfortunately, are painfully aware of how those travels ultimately end in the hills of Bolivia pursued by literally all of the security forces in the Western world.
Does this early life study of Che work? As a member of the Generation of 68 I am very, very familiar with the wanderlust that drove many of my generation, myself included, to seek salvation and companionship of kindred spirits on the roads of America and elsewhere. We rode those old Volkwagen buses to the ground in that pursuit and when they failed we hitchhiked (nobody does that anymore and, unfortunately, nobody should with all the weirdness out there on the mean roads of America these days). Che got the urge to find himself before Kerouacs Beat Generation classic On the Road and we got it as a result of that work so this struggle against personal alienation has been going on for a while now. However, that physical liberation from parental authority and the norms of bourgesois existence do not in themselves necesaarily produce anything except an existential traveler. If one did not know before hand that this film was about Che then, while it was interesting, cinematically beautiful and the interplay between the two travelers was well-acted it could have been about a fair percentage of the children of post-World War II generation.
The missing link is the politics. In a word the search for revolutionary politics. And that is the real problem with the unfolding of the story here. Based on this presentation it is hard to pinpoint what in Ches experiences acted as a catalyst for `enlightening him beyond some liberal sentimentality about the miseries of existence seen on his travels that would lead to a revolutionary understanding of the need to overthrow the old regimes. Yes, I know that to recruit people to revolution these days we will be dealing with bright, articulate, thoughtful, concerned liberals like Che in this films period but I believe that the makers of this film took a dive on the politics. If they had wanted to honor the memory of Che then they did a disservice to that memory by reducing him to a inoffensive character serviceable to the liberal milieu. If they merely , as I assume, wanted to ride the wave of popularity for a real icon for international youth then I have even greater political differences with their use of Ches legacy.
On: 2007-08-18
It does not matter whether you are a communist, a political conservative, or apathetic to politics at all, The Motorcycle Diaries exposes an important part in the life of Ernesto Che Guevara that is usually overshadowed by the activities ocurring during his later years. The film does a great job capturing his thoughts and the events that shaped his beliefs and that impulsed his strugle to bring power to the people and establish an egalitarian society.
On: 2007-08-12
"The Motorcycle Diaries" averaged three stars, including three on its merits as film. Lets look at the other factors first.
As propaganda; as a mass media product intended to shape attitudes and influence people, five stars. The imagery is powerful and emotionally persuasive, the story makes the point clear, and the subject of this fictionalized account of "Che" Guevaras journey across South America will do much to keep a communist/socialist/popular revolutionary in the same mindset as his or her comrades. Even a fairly hardened Capitalist will hesitate at the depiction of the plight of miners in South America. Powerful appeals to emotion, plus the iconic value of "Che" make this an extremely competent bit of psychological campaigning whether or not you buy it or the agenda it pushes.
As an interpretation of a book: a dismal failure; one star. Ches book was funny, light-hearted, and depicted a very human man barely out of adolescence, trying to find himself, liquor, and physical intimacy (maybe not in that order...). He was able to laugh at himself. This movie misses that altogether. Ernesto may be depicted as human, a subject of sympathy, or even youthfully foolish at times, but never as the one to laugh at, and never really laughing at himself. The changes in events and parts of the book that were ignored make this evident; that the filmakers took themselves and their cause more seriously than anyone outside their cause can.
As film; Three stars; it was OK, but only OK. The story depended too much on Che being Che as opposed to any other young physician traveling through South America, where the book had other merits. It was also to preachy abouth the political message; a less direct approach could have won it a broader audience. The scenery of Latin America is the real star of the film, varied but always magnificent and captured well by the filmmakers. The real star in my mind is the lady who played Silvia, a young woman with leprosy, with a lovely face despite her ailment. She played the role with heart, and was brilliant as she regained hope and a desire to live, despite her daily suffering.
As it relates to current events: Although Che had little in common with a modern irhabi and munafiquun (false Muslims who commit murder that defiles Islam), Che was a physician who took up arms for a cause. This movie depicts a heavily fictionalized account of what shaped this change. Given the number of physicians involved with modern terrorism, this film should drive much thought and discussion.
Over all: Eh. Beautiful scenery, a tolerable plot, too much propaganda. No matter how timely, relevant, and thought provoking, Im glad I rented it, but Im more glad I didnt buy it. If you have an interest in terrorism or low intensity conflict, it is worth watching once (not twice), otherwise, I would suggest you give it a pass.
On: 2007-08-11
"The Motorcycle Diaries" averaged three stars, including three on its merits as film. Lets look at the other factors first.
As propaganda; as a mass media product intended to shape attitudes and influence people, five stars. The imagery is powerful and emotionally persuasive, the story makes the point clear, and the subject of this fictionalized account of "Che" Guevaras journey across South America will do much to keep a communist/socialist/popular revolutionary in the same mindset as his or her comrades. Even a fairly hardened Capitalist will hesitate at the depiction of the plight of miners in South America. Powerful appeals to emotion, plus the iconic value of "Che" make this an extremely competent bit of psychological campaigning whether or not you buy it or the agenda it pushes.
As an interpretation of a book: a dismal failure; one star. Ches book was funny, light-hearted, and depicted a very human man barely out of adolescence, trying to find himself, liquor, and physical intimacy (maybe not in that order...). He was able to laugh at himself. This movie misses that altogether. Ernesto may be depicted as human, a subject of sympathy, or even youthfully foolish at times, but never as the one to laugh at, and never really laughing at himself. The changes in events and parts of the book that were ignored make this evident; that the filmakers took themselves and their cause more seriously than anyone outside their cause can.
As film; Three stars; it was OK, but only OK. The story depended too much on Che being Che as opposed to any other young physician traveling through South America, where the book had other merits. It was also to preachy abouth the political message; a less direct approach could have won it a broader audience. The scenery of Latin America is the real star of the film, varied but always magnificent and captured well by the filmmakers. The real star in my mind is the lady who played Silvia, a young woman with leprosy, with a lovely face despite her ailment. She played the role with heart, and was brilliant as she regained hope and a desire to live, despite her daily suffering.
As it relates to current events: Although Che had little in common with a modern irhabi and munafiquun (false Muslims who commit murder that defiles Islam), Che was a physician who took up arms for a cause. This movie depicts a heavily fictionalized account of what shaped this change. Given the number of physicians involved with modern terrorism, this film should drive much thought and discussion.
Over all: Eh. Beautiful scenery, a tolerable plot, too much propaganda. No matter how timely, relevant, and thought provoking, Im glad I rented it, but Im more glad I didnt buy it. If you have an interest in terrorism or low intensity conflict, it is worth watching once (not twice), otherwise, I would suggest you give it a pass.
On: 2007-08-10
I remember waiting anxiously for this movie to be released in theaters; I was going to be there the day it opened in the states. However, my life got busy, I lost track of time, and three years later, I still hadnt seen it.
I had high hopes that, unfortunately, the movie did not live up to. Its an interesting biography flick. The atmosphere of the locations is breathtaking, and the actors give some strong performances, but something about the story is lacking. It fails to draw you into the adventure. It doesnt feel as ominous of a task as it should.
I watched this movie with my roommate, who had not previously heard of it, and she stood up and left the room in the middle of the film after commenting on how boring it was. I have to say that if I had no interest in the subject of the film, I probably wouldnt have enjoyed it.
The films one saving grace is the amazing musical score by Gustavo Santaolalla. Its enough to pull you out of the monotony that most of the story is littered with.
I havent yet taken a peak at the dvds special features, so I cant attest to their quality. Even with its drawbacks, its a film worth checking out, especially if you are into foreign flicks. Just dont expect anything too special and dont let the lure of a peak into the young life of Che Guevara fool you into expecting anything of epic or adventurous proportions. The film is presented in the previews as two friends gallantly setting off for the unknown on their faithful "steed," but is in actuality a social commentary on the separation of social classes and the effect it has on young Fuser.
On: 2007-07-25
ased on Cuban revolutionary Che Guevaras memoirs about his eye-opening trip and political awakening, Salless lushly photographed "Diaries" is an impressively acted and superbly directed coming-of-age story. As the journey begins in Buenos Aires, we meet two bon vivants from prosperous families who wish to see the world before embarking on a career. Ultimately, they encounter South Americas impoverished Indian communities, and spend an entire year ministering to the ailing denizens of a leper colony. Anchored by Bernal and De La Sernas hearty performances, "Diaries" is a rousing portrait of political integrity and humanitarian commitment.
On: 2007-07-24
Not hard to figure out why this film has been embraced by the knee-jerk, politically correct, art-house set. Like JFK and Duane Allman, Che Guevara died at the ideal time to put a halo around his reputation. Revolution was in the air, it was 1967, and young Americans were casting about for new role models because their old ones were - in a word - hideous. Magically the face of Che became ubiquitous, he was - in an intellectually lazy way - symbolic of brave revolution in the face of tyranny. That the truth of his legacy is almost the antithesis of those ideals was not important then, he was a T-shirt!
The filmmakers cleverly tapped this ludicrous and sentimental vein, much the way the makers of Ray did, but the extra juice of self-righteous liberal elitism makes the mixture that much more intoxicating. Add to that the outrageous good looks of the lead, Gael Garcia Bernal, and you have a budding thug and executioner youd gladly introduce to mom and dad. The films most interesting and charismatic character dies halfway through the film - Im referring of course to the 1939 Norton motorcycle after which the movie is named.
The star of the film, and its much-needed redeeming factor, is the countryside of South America. Viewers will be happiest when the land is simply allowed to do the talking, and the protagonists watch along with them. In those moments when we are invited to imagine what an 8,000-mile journey through such a land must have felt like, we connect. We do not connect through the dialogue. For a couple of revolutionaries-in-training, these guys rarely - if ever - say anything that informs character, much less indicates change. One can certainly understand how witnessing injustice could shape a vague desire to improve the world through direct action, but such a transformation is difficult to express on film - and you wont see it here.
A movie deconstructing the hippie-era mythology about Che and revealing him for the closed-minded brute he was would have been much more interesting - although not as pretty.
On: 2007-07-20
I have read El Ches book, and although the film captures the spirit of the book, it is not an exact representation of the book. For example, according to the book, I believe Granados and El Che go to the USA before undertaking the long trip. Still, I loved the film because it showed the beauty of Latin America, and it did give insight to how El Che developed his idea Pan Americanism. It should be noted that the trip was not the one event that made El Che a socialist - his family already had socialist leanings, but that fact does not minimize the impact of this film.
On: 2007-06-22
I thought this was an extrordinarily beautiful movie. The cinematography, music, acting, and pace are all superb. Ill leave out the Guevara/Castro rant, since this is not the appropriate forum, and its not relevant to a review of this movie. Recommended.
On: 2007-06-16
Ive read both books that this DVD is based on, and the way they are put together makes an interesting film. If you havent yet discovered the talents of Garcia Gael Bernal, you certainly will want to see more of his films after this. Beautifully photographed, will make you want to take a tour of Latin America yourself. Perfect casting all around. Truly gives you a better understanding of Ernesto "Che" Guevaros motivation for who he was to become. The Widescreen edition is a must to appreciate the magnificent magical feeling that makes you want to get on the back of the motocycle with them.
by: Anonymous On: 2007-05-30
This movie is one of the best foreign flix i have ever seen. the way that they portrey Che is so interesting. finding out about one of the most memerable rebels in all of history. seeing his beginings in communism and the point of view of the native people in chile peru and all of south america. This movie is a great historical film as long as a great Drama
by: janiceft On: 2007-04-29
First of all, this is NOT a documentary, this is a film portraying the life of a 23 year old Ernesto Guevara de La Serna looking for adventures and inspiration. There was no need to give more details or be more specific about this character. He was a young man at this point, far from becoming the infamous warrior the world came to know as Che Guevara. I love this film, in fact it one of my favorites. I am appalled to learn about his actions in Cuba and his decision to stop practising medicine. I cannot deny that I both, admire and despise what he became, but the point of this movie is to depict his journey through South America, not how he became Che Guevara and end up with Fidel Castro in Cuba.
by: Anonymous On: 2007-04-11
One of Gaels insperational & professional roles as "che" hands down. A really really great movie of how the world chages a person and makes them wanna change the world he lives in.
by: crector10 On: 2007-03-21
The Motorcycle Diaries is an unusual biographical movie in that no real attempt is made to gain insight into the main character. Why did Che Guevara go from being a young doctor into becoming a human killing machine? While members of the medical profession did periodically join revolutionary units, it was almost always as soldiers serving in a medical role. Medical student Guevara was unusual in that he became a leader instead of remaining a medic.
Basically, The Motorcycle Diaries does not present a whole picture of Che Guevaras growth. It is mainly a nice exhibition of countryside cinematography. Its something of a buddies on the road picture. It offers little insight into Guevara or why he would abandon medicine for killing people in the name of Marxist revolution.
Basically, The Motorcycle Diaries is just cotton candy for the mind. Watch it for fluff and simple relaxation only.
by: Anonymous On: 2007-03-11
This film, based on the first 23 years of revolutionary guerrilla fighter, Ernesto "Che" Guevara (1928-67), offers everything a moviegoer desires except substance and insight. Knowing this, the viewer will be treated to spectacular footage of "the green mansions" of South America, which include Ches birthplace in Argentina, copper mines in Chile, ravishing stones of Machu Pichu, and a leper colony in Venezuela.
The film is a study of different faces and nations of peoples. Scenes of luxurious grandeur of the upper classes contrast with the dignity of the peasants who accept, as natural, their poverty and the pillage of their land by the rich.
No attempt is made to gain insight into the main character who will evolve over time into a famous dead warrior remembered by historians and even Castro himself for his senseless brutality.
On: 2007-02-28
Being an American myself who has actually visited Cuba within the last year, I find the other reviews of this documentary to be completely misguided. Like them, I first saw this documentary and believed that Castro and Che werent such a bad guys, but that the U.S. and Cuban exiles were biased and portrayed them as monsters. When I met several Cuban exiles who emotionally told me the stories of how they had their houses taken away by Castro and how their parents were tortured and placed in rat-infested prisons for simply expressing their support democracy, I thought these Cuban exiles were exaggerating. However, after I visited Cuba last year, I have to painfully admit that these people were correct in the stories they told me. I went to Cuba expecting to see racial equality, free healthcare and free education, as people like Ted Turner and Steven Spielberg had claimed existed in Cuba. What I learned from actually speaking to people in Cuba during my trip was a completely different picture from that portrayed of Castro in this documentary. Not to mention, I expected to see beautiful, exotic buildings. However, what I actually saw was building after building in Havana crumbling, with no electricity and on average, there were five to six families living in one two-story house. In one house I visited, the roof was partially torn off, one family of three lived under the staircase, two families lived in the kitchen, and three families lived upstairs, which consisted of two bedrooms and one closet. Very, very sad. Each day they had to wait in a line for two hours to just to get one ration of bread and rice. When I asked one of the mothers about the school system she explained that all children who attended were required to denounce any "counterrevolutionary activity" they saw at home to their teachers. As a result, many Cuban parents went to jail because one of their children notified authorities that their parents were "disagreeing" with the government some way. Imagine being placed in jail because U.S. law states your child must tell his third grade teacher he overheard you say "I disagree with the Iraq war and dislike President Bush" at your kitchen table. I also learned that when school children participate in a government march for the communist party theyre given a coupon, which must be given to their teachers the following day to prove they participated. If they dont turn in their your coupon, the teacher will make a notation on a report card that each Cuban student carries from kindergarten until he graduates from high school. In addition to information about the student participation in all political activities, the report card also has information about his family including whether his parents belong to the Communist Party, a Committee for the Defense of the Revolution or the CTC or Confederation of Cuban Workers. In pre-Castro Cuba, the CTC used to represent Cuban workers and demand new benefits and better salaries for them. In Castros Cuba, however, the CTC, exploits the workers, treating them as if they were slaves. The poor Cuban workers have to pay a fee to the CTC from their meager salaries in order to be "represented" by them. I was in such shock to learn these facts that I am now firmly convinced there is no such thing as a "free educational system" in Cuba.
As my conversations with Havana locals turned to the issue of free healthcare, praised by many ignorant Americans (myself having been one of them before this trip), I became even more distraught at the truth about healthcare in Cuba. The truth is that Castro has built excellent health facilities for the use of FOREIGNERS who pay hard currency for medical services. However, Cuban citizens are not even allowed to visit those facilities ! Cubans who require medical attention must go to other hospitals, that lack the most minimum requirements needed to take care of their patients. Most hospitals are filthy and patients have to bring their own towels, bed sheets, pillows, or they have to lay down on dirty bare mattresses stained with blood and other body fluids. Next time you hear someone say that Cubans receive "excellent free healthcare" (as I once used to say) please think again because that is simply not true. I spoke to five people whose family members died while attempting to "float" to Florida on dangerous, man-made rafts because they were so desperate to escape Fidel Castros regime. Most people I spoke to were afraid to answer my question "Do you like Castro?" But their silence and weary down-turned eyes spoke volumes about the truth. Most people HATE Castro and think he is selfish, oppressive monster who has banked millions of dollars while the Cuban people starve and wait in line for rations of bread. I was shocked to read in a Forbes magazine article dated 5/5/06 that Castros estimated fortune last year was $[...] million (if you dont believe go to this link: [...])
I came back from my trip to Cuba a changed person. I felt so stupid and ignorant for having believed this documentary and other statements made by American writers, actors and directors such as Alice Walker, Sydney Pollack, Danny Glover, Steven Spielberg, Jack Nicholson and Kevin Costner, that portrayed Castro as "brilliant" and Cuba as having "excellent healthcare and education." If you watch this documentary you should also watch the movie "The Lost City." This movie is the story of a Cuban family during the Cuban Revolution and ACCURATELY shows you both pre-Castro and post-Castro Cuba. It depicts how Castros government slowly began eliminating free press any semblance of property rights and freedom. The movie is fair because it portrays both points of view--one brother in the movie supports Castro and the other disagrees with Castro. The cab driver I had while I was in Havana told me that, being 75 years old, he had experienced both pre-Castro and post-Castro Cuba. When Castro took power he was poor and believed in socialism and the revolution. But now, 45 years later, he is no better off than he was before. At least before Castro, he told me, he had better healthcare, a better house and freedom to express his religious beliefs (Castro closed all churches and essentially banned religion) and political beliefs. Perhaps the saddest part of my trip, which still resonates in my head today, was how this old man just kept repeating over and over "I should have left in 1959. I should have known. I should have known. Now I am old and cannot leave. Ill never be free."
On: 2007-02-27
Being an American myself who has actually visited Cuba within the last year, I find the other reviews of this documentary to be completely misguided. Like them, I first saw this documentary and believed that Castro and Che werent such a bad guys, but that the U.S. and Cuban exiles were biased and portrayed them as monsters. When I met several Cuban exiles who emotionally told me the stories of how they had their houses taken away by Castro and how their parents were tortured and placed in rat-infested prisons for simply expressing their support democracy, I thought these Cuban exiles were exaggerating. However, after I visited Cuba last year, I have to painfully admit that these people were correct in the stories they told me. I went to Cuba expecting to see racial equality, free healthcare and free education, as people like Ted Turner and Steven Spielberg had claimed existed in Cuba. What I learned from actually speaking to people in Cuba during my trip was a completely different picture from that portrayed of Castro in this documentary. Not to mention, I expected to see beautiful, exotic buildings. However, what I actually saw was building after building in Havana crumbling, with no electricity and on average, there were five to six families living in one two-story house. In one house I visited, the roof was partially torn off, one family of three lived under the staircase, two families lived in the kitchen, and three families lived upstairs, which consisted of two bedrooms and one closet. Very, very sad. Each day they had to wait in a line for two hours to just to get one ration of bread and rice. When I asked one of the mothers about the school system she explained that all children who attended were required to denounce any "counterrevolutionary activity" they saw at home to their teachers. As a result, many Cuban parents went to jail because one of their children notified authorities that their parents were "disagreeing" with the government some way. Imagine being placed in jail because U.S. law states your child must tell his third grade teacher he overheard you say "I disagree with the Iraq war and dislike President Bush" at your kitchen table. I also learned that when school children participate in a government march for the communist party theyre given a coupon, which must be given to their teachers the following day to prove they participated. If they dont turn in their your coupon, the teacher will make a notation on a report card that each Cuban student carries from kindergarten until he graduates from high school. In addition to information about the student participation in all political activities, the report card also has information about his family including whether his parents belong to the Communist Party, a Committee for the Defense of the Revolution or the CTC or Confederation of Cuban Workers. In pre-Castro Cuba, the CTC used to represent Cuban workers and demand new benefits and better salaries for them. In Castros Cuba, however, the CTC, exploits the workers, treating them as if they were slaves. The poor Cuban workers have to pay a fee to the CTC from their meager salaries in order to be "represented" by them. I was in such shock to learn these facts that I am now firmly convinced there is no such thing as a "free educational system" in Cuba.
As my conversations with Havana locals turned to the issue of free healthcare, praised by many ignorant Americans (myself having been one of them before this trip), I became even more distraught at the truth about healthcare in Cuba. The truth is that Castro has built excellent health facilities for the use of FOREIGNERS who pay hard currency for medical services. However, Cuban citizens are not even allowed to visit those facilities ! Cubans who require medical attention must go to other hospitals, that lack the most minimum requirements needed to take care of their patients. Most hospitals are filthy and patients have to bring their own towels, bed sheets, pillows, or they have to lay down on dirty bare mattresses stained with blood and other body fluids. Next time you hear someone say that Cubans receive "excellent free healthcare" (as I once used to say) please think again because that is simply not true. I spoke to five people whose family members died while attempting to "float" to Florida on dangerous, man-made rafts because they were so desperate to escape Fidel Castros regime. Most people I spoke to were afraid to answer my question "Do you like Castro?" But their silence and weary down-turned eyes spoke volumes about the truth. Most people HATE Castro and think he is selfish, oppressive monster who has banked millions of dollars while the Cuban people starve and wait in line for rations of bread. I was shocked to read in a Forbes magazine article dated 5/5/06 that Castros estimated fortune last year was $[...] million (if you dont believe go to this link: [...])
I came back from my trip to Cuba a changed person. I felt so stupid and ignorant for having believed this documentary and other statements made by American writers, actors and directors such as Alice Walker, Sydney Pollack, Danny Glover, Steven Spielberg, Jack Nicholson and Kevin Costner, that portrayed Castro as "brilliant" and Cuba as having "excellent healthcare and education." If you watch this documentary you should also watch the movie "The Lost City." This movie is the story of a Cuban family during the Cuban Revolution and ACCURATELY shows you both pre-Castro and post-Castro Cuba. It depicts how Castros government slowly began eliminating free press any semblance of property rights and freedom. The movie is fair because it portrays both points of view--one brother in the movie supports Castro and the other disagrees with Castro. The cab driver I had while I was in Havana told me that, being 75 years old, he had experienced both pre-Castro and post-Castro Cuba. When Castro took power he was poor and believed in socialism and the revolution. But now, 45 years later, he is no better off than he was before. At least before Castro, he told me, he had better healthcare, a better house and freedom to express his religious beliefs (Castro closed all churches and essentially banned religion) and political beliefs. Perhaps the saddest part of my trip, which still resonates in my head today, was how this old man just kept repeating over and over "I should have left in 1959. I should have known. I should have known. Now I am old and cannot leave. Ill never be free."
On: 2007-02-16
Besides committing the worst cinematic sin of being boring and self-indulgent, this bromide of a film is an utter distortion of how Che Guevara developed into a sadistic murderer and rapist. This yawner shows him as a spoiled medical student who helps a leper colony, but does little to explain how he became a power-hungry militant with a notorious reputation for ruthlessness. He established forced labor camps to torture and kill innocent people. In one account, a child in his guerrila unit was immediately shot without trial for having stolen some food. He helped to destroy hundreds of years of a rich Cuban culture (see "Before Night Falls" to understand how the Castro government stifled free speech and tortured innocent people). Meanwhile, he was a hypocrite, living in a rich Havana estate like the so-called "capitalist oppressors" he tried to eradicate. But dont expect to see that story in this dull, droning film.
On: 2007-01-25
In 1952, twenty-three year old Ernesto Guevara de la Serna and his best friend Alberto Granado left school and their wealthy families on an 8,000 mile trek from Argentina to the northern tip of Peru. Their initial purpose was nothing more than fun and games, and to celebrate Albertos thirtieth birthday. Along the way they encounter exploited miners, indigenous Indians, and disenfranchised lepers, and the geographical pilgrimmage turns into a political awakening. As Ernesto remarks at the end of the film, "Im no longer me, at least the me I used to be." You can enjoy this film as a coming-of-age travel narrative with spectacular scenery of Incan ruins and the Andes mountains. As a political documentary of its main subject, the revolutionary Che Guevara, it is at best romantic and incomplete. The founder with Fidel Castro of the 1956 Cuban Revolution, with later exploits in Congo and Bolivia, Guevara was murdered in Bolivia in 1967 at the age of 39. Still, there is something deeply powerful about the "pedagogy of the poor" learned from real life experiences of injustice and oppression such as are recounted here, and which are the lot of a disproportionate number of people in our world. The film, in Spanish with English subtitles, is based upon Guevaras diaries of the trip. Granado, now in his eighties, still lives in Havana.
On: 2007-01-22
A beautiful exploration of how a road trip across Latin America in 1952 makes a lasting impression on a pair of idealistic young medical students, one of whom would later go on to become the Communist revolutionary Che Guevara. As they meet rural peasants who dont have adequate medical care, any land rights or any other basic necessities, we watch as the seeds of social change are planted in young Ches mind. The acting is good, there are many humorous moments, and the movie makes use of local actors which adds to the feeling of authenticity as the men travel through different Latin American countries. The chief negative aspect of this movie is that Che is portrayed as being a very decent and honorable man which may be inconsistent with how many view him in real life. As I dont pretend to know Ches real life story, I enjoyed the movie as it was presented and skipped on passing judgment on fact.
On: 2007-01-12
Gave me an interesting insight into the life of Ernesto Guevara before he became "el Che." I had no interest in him as his communist inclination does not go well with me but now think I know what it was that motivated him to follow that path, no doubt the man was a humanist, a big time adventurer, and a determined anarchist. I still cannot bring myself to admire him, but this certainly was an interesting facet of his life as depicted in "The Motorcycle Diaries."
On: 2007-01-03
This film has remarkably beautiful photography, commendable acting, and, early on, undeniably amusing scenes of camaraderie between the young, relatively well-off Che and his road trip companion as they travel through South America, frequently slumming among the genuine poor. Unfortunately though, the films vision becomes finally evasive, if not downright cowardly. If Salles had made a film, say, about infamous young Adolf in his days as an aspiring, high-minded artist, while wholly ignoring his later destructive actions once in power, yet returning to finish his story with a tacked on, real world eulogy by a former storm trooper, thered be hell to pay. Because this film, likewise, does not confine itself completely to its heros idealistic youth, but seeks instead, through the eulogy by his actual, now aged buddy, to impinge upon our real world assessment of the historical Che, it tumbles out of art and into easy, fashionable propaganda. Salles vision seems to have been distorted by an adherence to some simple-minded notions, that caring words count more than actual later deeds, and that a lily, if of the left, even should it come to fester, will not smell far worse than weeds.
On: 2007-01-02
This film has remarkably beautiful photography, commendable acting, and, early on, undeniably amusing scenes of camaraderie between the young, relatively well-off Che and his road trip companion as they travel through South America, frequently slumming among the genuine poor. Unfortunately though, the films vision becomes finally evasive, if not downright cowardly. If Salles had made a film, say, about infamous young Adolf in his days as an aspiring, high-minded artist, while wholly ignoring his later destructive actions once in power, yet returning to finish his story with a tacked on, real world eulogy by a former storm trooper, thered be hell to pay. Because this film, likewise, does not confine itself completely to its heros idealistic youth, but seeks instead, through the eulogy by his actual, now aged buddy, to impinge upon our real world assessment of the historical Che, it tumbles out of art and into easy, fashionable propaganda. Salles vision seems to have been distorted by an adherence to some simple-minded notions, that caring words count more than actual later deeds, and that a lily, if of the left, even should it come to fester, will not smell far worse than weeds.
by: xterminal On: 2006-12-14
The Motorcycle Diaries (Walter Salles, 2004)
The Motorcycle Diaries is the story of a roadtrip taken by two friends, Che Guevara (The Crime of Father Amaros Gael Garcia Bernal) and Alberto Granado (TV actor Rodrigo de la Serna, a second cousin of the actual Che Guevara). The movie, based on Guevaras memoirs, is the story of how Che went from being just another bourgeois medical student to being a crusader for workers rights and an idol to communists around the globe. As such, the movie has been much castigated in America as being a glorification of communism or the like.
In fact, Guevaras great awakening takes a somewhat surprising back seat to the journey itself here, and thats one of the things that makes The Motorcycle Diaries into such a wonderful, and watchable, movie. Bernal and De la Serna are both fine actors, and the chemistry between the two is easily the equal of that to be found in any Hollywood buddy-cop movie of the last ten years. Director Walter Salles (Central Station) and screenwriter Jose Rivera (Eerie, Indiana) decided, quite rightly, to focus on that chemistry, to make The Motorcycle Diaries the story of a friendship that happens to contain a political awakening, rather than a political awakening that happens to be couched within a friendship, and it makes all the difference. You can choose to see it as a political film, or you can choose to see it as a buddy film. One way or the other, though, you should see it. ****
by: the_regulator On: 2006-11-22
The motorcycle diaries is a memorable film as it takes you back to another time, and another place. It is about two medical students named Ernesto Guevara and Alberto Granado. The two head out on a long trip aboard a Norton 500 motorcycle which can barely hold the two men and their belongings. The idea was for a ride of adventure throughout the South American Continent, in which Ernesto would celebrate along the way, his 30th birthday. They plan on working at a leper colony in the Peruvian Amazon as well.
The film has some hidden meaning to it as it goes along. Despite the carefree and fun loving adventure as well as camaraderie the two share, they quickly are opened up to another world. As Ernesto says in his diary: "Never have I seen so many people who are indigenous in their own land". As their ultimate eight month trek continues, they make memories that will last a lifetime. Ernesto also becomes impressioned by what he sees to the point that in the end of the film, they relay to us who he really is, and what happened in the end of his life.
The motorcycle diaries is a must see film. Its touching, a definite period movie, and also has so many themes and thoughts that are still strong and memorable. Ernesto is played by Gael Garcia Bernal, who also had a starring role in the wonderful contemporary film "The King". The movie has a good balance of showing the innocent fun of two young men coupled with their slow realization of the economic and social difficulties of the region they are discovering. The second "Scene" of the airplane taking off and the view of an elderly Alberto Granado seeing the plane take off is one of the most powerful scenes to end a story I have seen in a while. I was not aware of who the movie was about until the end, so despite other spoilers, I hope you can view it without knowing to be as surprised as I was, as well as have a better understanding of Ernestos past.
The soundtrack for The motorcycle diaries is also superb. Various instrumentals that are fluent with classical and spanish guitar playing.
On: 2006-11-07
My husband and I loved it. It is very down to earth, simple and full of live. Despite the youth of the actors, the performance was great, superb!
On: 2006-10-31
This is movie is just amazing...If you are into foreign good quality films...you should get this movie...its just brilliant :)
On: 2006-10-05
I grew up during the Cold War when the USSR was the personfication of Evil and anybody left of Reagan was suspect. Listening to the nightly news, history books, and political pundits, one would think that Che Guevara was the Hammer of Evil; however, as I have learned since then, life is much more complicated than what was painted for me then.
The film shows the very human side of a young Ernesto Guevara as he takes a break from his medical studies to do a road trip around South America. Together with Alberto Grenada, they experience the gamut of human emotion: the joys, elations, and sadness of a journey amongst the downtrodden of the time.
When my wife rented it, I was not excited to watch this movie, even though I like foreign films. However, I was soon captivated by the excitement of the soon-to-be revolutionary as he experienced life outside his upper-class family. Walter Salles did an exceptional job of portraying the feelings evident in the book, which I bought and read as a result of this movie. Moreso, I revisited what I thought I knew of history by reading more on who this Che Guevara actually was and why I he was portrayed as such an evil man.
Because of this movie, I learned quite a bit about that period of history and, more specifically, about a man the CIA thought important enough to kill in Bolivia. For that alone, I would thank Salles, as I consider education and information one of the most important things in life.
I highly recommend this movie for not only an exciting film that will draw you in, but for a look at the making of a revolutionary who so affected the world in which we live today.
by: canadian3 On: 2006-09-28
I got a confession to make: like a previous reviewer said about his friend, I too didnt connect the main character of the film with the controversial communist revolutionary Che Guevara. While his last name is mentioned a couple times and Che, not once did it occur to me that it meaning him. In reflecting on the film, it had a different resonance. Instead of being a road trip movie about things that change your life, it ended up becoming a look into a life who had enough with things and wanted change. Sure we can disagree with the methods but its quite a look into a famous leaders backstory.
2 friends living in Argentina, Alberto and Ernesto, decide to do what they had been planning for awhile: a big motorcycle trip around South America and ending in a leper colony for volunteer work. Several minor mishaps happen such as a storm or constant motorcycle problems but they gradually get introduced to the problems facing many people which starts to affect Ernesto in a big way.
First off, the film is anchored with 2 great performances, especially by Gael Garcia Bernal as Ernesto who manages to say a lot just simply by his expression or his gestures. Second, the cinematography is great with picturesque shots of the countryside including an ancient Mayan civilization. The film never gets preachy, showing that after-school special "we are the world" stuff a lot of these films have. One minor complaint is that the film just feels long at times. And poor Mia Maestro, the only worthwhile character in Poseidon and they write her off and she doesnt last long on Alias. Here, shes in a few scenes at the beginning than she disappears for the entire film. Not to mention the end credits dont mention what became of her.
Now for the Che Guevera aspect: watching him do very daring things in the film, particularly involving the leper colony he volunteered at makes you appreciate the social awareness he was starting to now see, as well as trying to promote. Some would describe the man as a hero, others see him as merely a revolutionary who wanted change by any means necessary which of course brings up the ends vs means question. Like many popular figures, he ended up becoming one of the more well-known and influential people even if certain things were questionable.
Its certainly a watchable film although I probably wouldnt watch it twice. Its a great character study where your eyes get opened to everything beyond your comfort zone and I think we can all relate.
On: 2006-09-24
Easy Rider without the sex and drugs and rock n roll! In Spanish to boot!
On: 2006-09-04
This movie is well done. If you want to know about ernesto before he was called the "Che" and how his views began to change watch this movie!
On: 2006-08-29
I withdrew some time ago my critics on Guevaras life to make some research.
Since then, I have seen many documentaries and I have read many documents about this man, all contradictory.
In fact his whole life was controversial and we need to read a lot and between lines to find the truth about his revolutionary legacy.
But it seems so naïve to believe that the Cuban Government would let the cameraman to film the wall were the anti-Castro Cubans in Miami claim that so many were shot dead by the firing squads in 1959 under Guevaras orders.
It is simply unimaginable.
Again, his words before being caught in the Bolivian forest, he is remembered to say "Dont shoot, I am worth more alive than dead", put simply, this cannot be true from a man that have put his neck on the stake for an idea. Remember that he went to the Bolivian forest regardless of all the dangers and against all the odds.
I am argentine, thus I believe I can understand the mentality of this revolutionary. He was a true revolutionary. He was almost a SAINT and he deserves more respect from his enemies, these individuals that just engage their time in conspiring against the few TRUE democracies that still survive at the south of the Bravo River.
If you want to learn something about a MAN I think this is the movie for you.
On: 2006-08-03
Okay, so 99% of the DVDs that come out in English have a Spanish dialogue soundtrack. How come this doesnt have an English dialogue soundtrack. I had no idea this was in a foreign language, and returned it immediately upon this discovery!
Hated it!
Two limp thumbs way down!
MC White said: It sucked!
On: 2006-08-02
Okay, so 99% of the DVDs that come out in English have a Spanish dialogue soundtrack. How come this doesnt have an English dialogue soundtrack. I had no idea this was in a foreign language, and returned it immediately upon this discovery!
Hated it!
Two limp thumbs way down!
MC White said: It sucked!
On: 2006-07-18
The well meaning Robert Redford is a historical illiterate. It is also fair to describe the famous screen artist as a stereotypical useful idiot. His production of The Motorcycle Diaries is a leftist whitewash of a very evil man, Ernesto "Che" Guevara. The enslavement of Cuba is greatly due to his efforts. In the final years of this monsters relatively short life, Fidel Castros close friend and comrade murdered people without hesitation. Sometimes for next to nothing. When in doubt, Guevara felt it was better to put a bullet into the head of a perceived enemy of the revolution. Was he always such a despicable creature? The short answer: no. According to this film, Che was once an idealist who valued truth and interacted with other human beings in a very generous manner. There seems to be little evidence to suggest in 1952 that he would ever turn into a blood thirsty Marxist ideologue. On the contrary, one might have more readily predicted Che would invent a cure for leprosy.
We observe Ernesto Guevara traveling through South America with his buddy Alberto Granado. They have more time than money. This is suppose to be their voyage of discovery before returning to the serious duties of earning a good income and fulfilling their career ambitions. There are hints of their left-wing political leanings, but for the most part they seem like wild and crazy guys seeking adventure and a good time. The Motorcycle Diaries fails to deliver. I want to know what happened to Che immediately after his trip. Who did he meet that pushed him over the edge? What finally enticed Guevara to become a political extremist? These questions are left unanswered.
David Thomson
Flares into Darkness
On: 2006-07-14
My main draw of seeing this movie was to see the beautiful South America since I knew nothing about Che Guverara. If you are going to watch for that very reason then I assure you this is an awesome movie. However it does have a story of his transition from a compassionate doctor to a communist. It like a documentary film (mind you its diaries) with wonderful anecdotes. If you have ever been on a road trip just to enjoy nature you will readily connect with this film. If you havent then here is your chance to experience that.
On: 2006-07-05
It is a great Movie, to people who enjoy real life stories and deep thoughs.
Also very funny
On: 2006-07-03
What is your inspiration? What sparks you?
This movie is just a begining of a man... And, I believe it is a touching movie of destiny.
Simply, what unfolds in front of you and how you react to those situations to make you who you are is seen in this movie.
I would recommened it to everyone
On: 2006-07-02
I loved this movie! In the same manner that Lord of the Rings incorporated New Zealands stunning landscape into the storyline, "Motorcycle Diaries" tells a very honest tale of two adventure seekers who ride through South America on a motorbike and are inspired by its breathtaking landscape and the interesting lives of the people they encounter. Its all a true story and its the road trip that inspired Ernesto "Che" Guevara to become a revolutionary.
Regardless of your viewpoints of Che Guevara, this movie modestly and humorously brings about the sense of adventure and humanity of Granado and Guevara on their trip. Two young men, a medical student and a biochemist are looking to practice medicine and get laid on the way, but of course everything changes after 8 months on the road. Nonetheless, its a wonderful journey. No overdramatization in this movie. No cliched speeches. Its simply a well-told coming of age story. Gael Garcia Bernal asolutely nails the role. Hes fast on his way to an Oscar.
Highly recommended movie and not to be missed.
On: 2006-06-24
From a purely product perspective, this is a very good film. The scenery is outstanding, the actors are good, the story is interesting, etc. So whats the problem?
The issue is that we are watching a film that puts a person who did horrible things into an extremely positive light. Che Gueverra is shown to be a Christlike figure in this film. He never does anything wrong and he has an affinity to take care of lepers. We see him hurt for the poor people he encounters on his journey and we see him try to help them. The actor playing Che has a lot of charisma and the viewer cant help but pull for him.
What the film doesnt show are the crimes against humanity and the ultimate outcome of his efforts to "help" others. Was he a bad person, or a saint at heart like the film shows? Well, I cant look into his heart, but I can say that his actions brought a lot of pain and oppression on innocents. Why then, do we celebrate his life with a film like this?
I was able to enjoy the film at face value, imagining that it was just some fictional account. And by that standard this is a 5 star film up until the last scene, where the viewer is told that Che was "murdered under the approval of the CIA". Thats were the film makers made this a politcal film instead of just a good story.
I ended up giving the film 3 stars, but its actually hard to rate a film like this at all. As one review below mentioned, a film about Hitler could fit this same pattern. Would I enjoy such a film? If not, how can I not be disgusted with this film. So, I tried to give it a neutral rating and explain my thoughts.
On: 2006-06-23
From a purely product perspective, this is a very good film. The scenery is outstanding, the actors are good, the story is interesting, etc. So whats the problem?
The issue is that we are watching a film that puts a person who did horrible things into an extremely positive light. Che Gueverra is shown to be a Christlike figure in this film. He never does anything wrong and he has an affinity to take care of lepers. We see him hurt for the poor people he encounters on his journey and we see him try to help them. The actor playing Che has a lot of charisma and the viewer cant help but pull for him.
What the film doesnt show are the crimes against humanity and the ultimate outcome of his efforts to "help" others. Was he a bad person, or a saint at heart like the film shows? Well, I cant look into his heart, but I can say that his actions brought a lot of pain and oppression on innocents. Why then, do we celebrate his life with a film like this?
I was able to enjoy the film at face value, imagining that it was just some fictional account. And by that standard this is a 5 star film up until the last scene, where the viewer is told that Che was "murdered under the approval of the CIA". Thats were the film makers made this a politcal film instead of just a good story.
I ended up giving the film 3 stars, but its actually hard to rate a film like this at all. As one review below mentioned, a film about Hitler could fit this same pattern. Would I enjoy such a film? If not, how can I not be disgusted with this film. So, I tried to give it a neutral rating and explain my thoughts.
On: 2006-06-19
this is not a typical movie which revolves around a plot,then reaches the climax and the end credits roll-on,and you come home feeling entertained.No...this is not such a movie.this is a film about a meaningful events of a man who later became a REAL hero.
its full of fun events in the beginning of the film,later slowly transforming in to something very intense and meaningful.
ofcourse the music is of great quality and the picturesque landscapes are stunning.but this film is more on the documentry side...
so be prepared,if you gonna watch this
On: 2006-06-04
this spanish language film accounts the early life of che guevara, and his tour thru south america while on vacation from medical school in argentina in the early 1950s. whatever one thinks of che, one cannot dispute the charisma. and gael garcia bernal (who is dreamy creamy, btw) evokes that on screen. the sequence in the leper colony can not help but get to you. and if the movie is a trifle overlong, im not sure what i would have omitted. worth anyones time.
On: 2006-06-02
This is a beautifully done film...both scenically and with a haunting message as well. The portrayal of a young man struggling to fulfill his prescribed destiny in society and trying to find adventure in the midst of a monotonous life. The public can get a glimpse as to the inspiration or exasperation of Ernesto Guevara, of course the film is just that, a film. It certainly called in me a necessity to find more realiable material for this mans cause. To ultimately find, that what is truly admirable about Che are his firm beliefs, right or wrong, and his ability to sacrifice his own life for those beliefs.
On: 2006-05-22
Hows this for a movie idea? Its Germany, 1906, and were following the picaresque adventures of 17 year old Adolf Hitler and his comedic sidekick August Kubizek. As our romantic young heroes flirt with fraulein all over scenic Austria and Bavaria and get into scraps with local yokels, among other wacky misadventures, they experience a political awakening as they witness the various depradations which the Jews are inflicting upon the German people. Among other crimes, we see the lascivious Jewish pimp selling the flesh of kidnapped 13 year old Aryan girls and the greedy Jewish capitalist cheating the German workers out of a living wage. In the films climactic moment, after attending a performance of Wagners stirring anthem to freedom- Rienzi- young Adolf and August climb the Freienberg hill overlooking Linz and Adolf, standing heroically in the moonlight with his blue eyes ablaze with purpose and an other-worldly determination, makes an impassioned declaration that from that moment forth he would live only for Germany and would one day lead her people out of their current bondage into a glorious future of freedom and justice for all. To the ecstatic theme of some Wagnerian crescendo, our film climaxes with a closeup of Adolf, his beautiful face ringed by the moon in a saintly halo.
Sound outrageous? Then why arent you outraged at the identical cinematic treatment given to Che Guevara, a murderous thug whose lifes goal was to violently force mankind into slavery under the most blood-soaked, anti-human ideological system in history? This is a great movie- the story is absorbing; the characters are eminently likeable and sympathetic; the cinematography is stunningly lush and beautiful. But looming over it all is the fact that this is a hagiography for a psychotic mass murderer. One shudders to wonder that if a mere glamorous photograph of Che from the 1960s succeeded in beguiling 2 generations of feebleminded college radicals, then what kind of effect will this expertly rendered piece of totalitarian propaganda have on todays youth and future generations of young morons?
It would be futile to try to enumerate this madmans thousands of crimes here. The interested reader could easily uncover the truth through a quick internet search. Suffice it to say that during the Cuban Missile Crisis he agitated to start a nuclear war and hoped to build his Maoist paradise amidst the radioactive ashes. Che is dead and his most fitting monuments are the concentration camps and mass graves he left behind. The larger issue is that this is yet another example- as if it were needed- of the mental perversion and hypocrisy of Hollywood. Whose idolatrous biopic should we expect next? Stalins? Maos? Bin Ladens? Hollywood is a fetid dumpster, breeding disease and infestation throughout the world, and any American who financially supports its products is a fool who is paying for his own contamination and eventual destruction.
On: 2006-05-15
I am still confused of what came out of che guevara after he came to power, was he the pure-hearted, honest boy that was portrayed here or did he become a political savage??
by: magneteach On: 2006-05-12
***1/2
In 1952, a promising young medical student named Ernesto Guevara de la Serna set off on an epic journey that would take him and his buddy, Alberto Granada, from their home in Buenos Aires to the northernmost tip of Venezuela. The things Ernesto saw and the people he met along the way would wind up changing not only his life but the lives of the countless people who were soon to become his followers. For that man would become known to history as `Che Guevara, the Marxist revolutionary who, to this day, for good or for ill, remains an iconic figure to many downtrodden and oppressed peoples of the world - and a symbol of Communist tyranny to others.
"The Motorcycle Diaries" is based on Guevaras own writings about the trip. Even so, the film is never totally successful at showing how this rather modest young man became one of the worlds leading revolutionary figures. Although the movie is extremely well made from a technical standpoint, the first half plays like any other road trip movie, chronicling the boys encounters with various people and their mishaps with the motorcycle. In the second half, however, we begin to see the stirring of a social conscience in Guevara that would become the focal point of all his future activities. As he encounters more and more indigent people suffering at the hands of an indifferent ruling class, Guevara becomes acutely aware of the great divide that exists between wealth and poverty in the world and the great human and social injustice that such a gulf leads to. As a result, the second half of the movie is more interesting than the first. However, even here, something seems to be missing. Is it that we just dont see enough real suffering on the part of the people Guevara encounters? Or is it that Gael Garcia Bernal, fine actor though he is, is simply too passive, too much an observer to convince us that his character would later go on to become such a key mover of world events?
This is not to say that "The Motorcycle Diaries" doesnt have moments of great beauty and power, only that it never reveals much to us about the interior workings of the man who is its subject. In addition to the confident directing by Walter Salles and the fluid editing and camerawork, the film has a rich musical score, filled with flavorful Spanish rhythms, provided by Gustavo Santaolalla, who recently won an Academy Award for his even more beautiful work in "Brokeback Mountain."
Even 46 years after his death, Guevara still remains a lightning rod for controversy, with as many people lining up to despise him as to honor him. Certainly the Castro revolution in Cuba, in which Guevara played so prominent a part, hardly led to a land of plenty or a life of freedom for the horribly oppressed people there. "The Motorcycle Diaries," because it only covers Guevaras pre-revolutionary years, is able to bypass all that messiness and paint the man in largely glowing and positive terms. Thus, the movie fails to catch the irony of a man who began as a defender of oppressed people eventually helping to install a system in which his own group became the oppressors themselves. A movie on that subject might make for a more searching and pointed film than this one turns out to be, but "The Motorcycle Diaries" still has much to recommend it.
On: 2006-05-10
A co-worker recommended this movie. I had never heard of. I bought and really enjoyed watching. The story reminds us of why it is that we can be driven to action when we are young. It was good to know something about the principal caracter, but my wife enjoyed it and she was born and raise in the Pacific Islands not a clue as to who Che is so the movie tells a good story of a young man who found his revolutionary calling after seen all of south America.
On: 2006-04-13
As the grandson of a farmer who was made to dig his own grave and then was shot in the back of the head at Ches command, I find this canonization of Che to be an utter disgrace. Thank God my parents and I made it to America where I can be free, I can have access to the internet, and I can speak without fear. I only wish my dead grandfather, my dead uncle, my dead aunt, and my imprisoned and tortured cousins could have been afforded the same basic human dignity.
On: 2006-03-29
Its a well-told story of two young mens road trip through South America in the 1950s, and an eye-opening visual treat for an American like me who is ignorant of South Americas geographic beauty and diversity. Young Che (Ernesto), portrayed by the well-cast, eye candy (attractive) Gael Garcia Bernal: bonds with the common people ("I like your face" says one rural dweller approvingly), sacrifices for the poor, has empathy for the sick, heals the lepers, knows his own suffering and vulnerability, and strongly hints that he will dedicate his life to fighting the growing INJUSTICE they find. In other words, young Che is presented as a very Christ-like figure. But the final moments of the film give away a strong political bias -- Che was inexplicably murdered "BY THE CIA." So we have this saintly, Christ-like man-child at the end of a transformative journey which takes him to the cusp of adulthood -- but whose life was cut short by the US government agency equated with all the evil above. The film would be beautiful if it was simply about 2 young men unknown to this day and age. Because the story is obviously about a historical figure (a revolutionary leader who led armed rebellions involving lots of bloodshed) there are puzzling gaps -- how could such an vulnerable asthmatic become a jungle-based commando? Why would he be assasinated? The films ending insinuates a lot of unstated political messages which detract from its value. Ignore the obvious political bias, and enjoy it on the human and scenic level.
by: jen-jay On: 2006-02-23
I was able to watch "The Motorcycle Diaries" today and Walter Salles is no ordinary director. I am pleased to see that he convincingly managed to overcome geographical barriers, to accomplish a high standard of film making. The cinematography is truly gorgeous, and reminded me how little of the South American landscape we ever see on film in the U.S. The cinematographer has pulled off a major feat in shooting a period film in slightly grainy, sometimes shaky hand-held. No crane shots or sepia tinting here-the film quality immerses you in Guevara and Granados experiences and makes them feel very immediate, without sacrificing any sense of history. A film like this is long overdue, and it deserves wide distribution.
"Diaries" runs smoothly and effortlessly, without a trace of boredom. It is frequently funny and it makes the audience aware of deep emotions inside the minds of two young adventurers, who were bound to change their lives forever. I am glad that "Diaries" did not try to make a political speech or to explain to us why Guevara was a revolutionary man. It simply shows two friends traveling together, with completely different personalities but profound affection and respect for each others idealism.
Upon reading the credits, one can clearly see that this is joint project, done by people who are deeply involved with good, non-commercial film making. Also, Gael Garcia and Jaime Azócar are artists in their own right. Their performance is truly first-class, yielding a special significant to the development of the characters and the credibility of the film. Highly recommended.
On: 2006-02-18
Great cinematography, great acting, great screen play, great soundtrack!
Great performance by Rodrigo De La Serna in his first film, and of course Gael Garcia Bernal was excellent playing young Ernesto "Che" Guevara, not just his acting but his Argentinean accent was not bad at all.
Now me being Latino what I like bout the movie is that it does not touch anything about his days in Cuba or anything that has to do with his revolutionary days or the Che that most Latin American young man fell in love with it (till the end), but we have to understand that Che was the most excellent marketing campaign ever seen of the ideal revolutionary not just in Cuba but all over Latin America by any political party.
The movie is about friendship, how two young man best friends have the best time of their life trying to accomplish their dream. a young medical student, free spirit Che coming from a good family decide to put everything away to go on a trip for the first time in his young life with his best friend Alberto Granado a biochemist which his goal was to accomplish their dream trip by his thirtieth birthday, and the Poderosa (the mighty one, a 1939 Norton motorcycle) to make their dream come true which was to have fun exploring every single corner of Latin (South) America in four months getting by their charm to have a place to sleep, something to eat and get any cent they can to keep going and see every beautiful place there was to see.
At the end you see how he finds in him self the idealist after seen how people around South America living in poverty, and nothing about it is done by the Latin American governments. (Very last minute)
Now if you are a Che admire for how he became the face label of a revolution and used by many other countries to brain wash a lot of young people with it, this movie is not for you. If you looking for the Che that threw away his family and future medical career and how this young idealist kid "did everything in his rich to help the poor" and became the man embrace by Cuba and many other countries for giving his life for them, I have to tell you dont watch it.
Which I am glad it wasnt!!!
by: Anonymous On: 2006-01-29
Great movie! A+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Recommended to all buyers.
On: 2006-01-28
Not entirely sure how I became a racist by simply pointing out the fact that Che was a murderer. I dont care who he was "fighting" and who you think he was fighting for. Obviously, the masses couldnt care less since his "revolution" didnt catch on regardless of where he went. Im also curious how he managed not to be a communist since he was 2nd in command to a communist revolution in Cuba and tried to export that revolution throughout Latin America. We all know how that went! He can fight all the "brutal dictators" he wants, he was brutal working for a brutal dictator himself. So Im supposed to be a racist because I dont choose the foolish point of view that Che was "less brutal" and killed fewer people? Thats like saying David Duke is better than Hitler. Who cares? I hate em both!
As for the review, let me spell it out in case plain English cant penetrate your anger and irrationality...
Just because you/the director/writer/anyone else thinks Che liked the little guy and did some nice things for him, or even that he had nice intentions, doesnt lessen the fact that making a buddy road trip movie about someone who lined up political prisoners and shot them (or ordered them to be shot) doesnt sit well with me. Behold, your beloved Che:
"To send men to the firing squad, judicial proof is unnecessary...These procedures are an archaic bourgeois detail. This is a revolution! And a revolutionary must become a cold killing machine motivated by pure hate. We must create the pedagogy of the paredon (the execution wall)"
At least he was fighting "the man" right?
On: 2006-01-27
Not entirely sure how I became a racist by simply pointing out the fact that Che was a murderer. I dont care who he was "fighting" and who you think he was fighting for. Obviously, the masses couldnt care less since his "revolution" didnt catch on regardless of where he went. Im also curious how he managed not to be a communist since he was 2nd in command to a communist revolution in Cuba and tried to export that revolution throughout Latin America. We all know how that went! He can fight all the "brutal dictators" he wants, he was brutal working for a brutal dictator himself. So Im supposed to be a racist because I dont choose the foolish point of view that Che was "less brutal" and killed fewer people? Thats like saying David Duke is better than Hitler. Who cares? I hate em both!
As for the review, let me spell it out in case plain English cant penetrate your anger and irrationality...
Just because you/the director/writer/anyone else thinks Che liked the little guy and did some nice things for him, or even that he had nice intentions, doesnt lessen the fact that making a buddy road trip movie about someone who lined up political prisoners and shot them (or ordered them to be shot) doesnt sit well with me. Behold, your beloved Che:
"To send men to the firing squad, judicial proof is unnecessary...These procedures are an archaic bourgeois detail. This is a revolution! And a revolutionary must become a cold killing machine motivated by pure hate. We must create the pedagogy of the paredon (the execution wall)"
At least he was fighting "the man" right?
On: 2005-12-22
Just kidding. I hate em. But this movie is great because deep down inside every ruthless killer and dictator-lackey is a human being who once felt bad for lepars. So we should make nice movies about them. Next the director will be making a film about Adolf who was a real swell guy and animal lover who became so enraged about German mismanagement of its economy and the after-effects that he decided the blame lay at the feet of the continents jews. So he had great motives, he just got a little angry! Just like Che!
On: 2005-12-21
Just kidding. I hate em. But this movie is great because deep down inside every ruthless killer and dictator-lackey is a human being who once felt bad for lepars. So we should make nice movies about them. Next the director will be making a film about Adolf who was a real swell guy and animal lover who became so enraged about German mismanagement of its economy and the after-effects that he decided the blame lay at the feet of the continents jews. So he had great motives, he just got a little angry! Just like Che!
On: 2005-12-20
A good movie--informative about the beginnings of Che Guevara. An average citizen, smart and refined (about to attend Med School) inspired by his trip through America to become what he is known as today--a revolutionary fighting for his people. The movie stays true to the book, which is the writings of Che Guevara himself. Highly reccomended
On: 2005-12-15
I highly recommend it too all ages, especially college students, they need to have real BIG dream.
I like the actors, they are excellent. Basically, this type of movie is bore and not easy to watch. Director managed it very good.
On: 2005-12-12
This is a beautifully shot movie, fantastic scenery and earthy people. Pacing is somewhat uneven at times. This is Che in his early years, which is a tough thing to produce a movie of, as one does not want to romanticize too much, nor does want to make him completely unlikable. As indicated by previous reviews, this movie leans on the romanticizing. Nonetheless, its a well-put together flick. Maria Full of Grace is my choice for best foreign film of 2004.
On: 2005-12-01
and here i was thinking that Maria Full Of Grace would take that crown.this is an important film that everyone that cares about the world should see.it shows back in the 50s how people were treated and how they lived.this is the story about Ernesto Guevara (Gael Garcia Bernal)a.k.a. Che Guevara and his friend Alberto Granados (Rodrigo De la Serno)adventure cross country trek to find what they are looking for.both medical students they end up meeting a well-known doctor who helps them out and sends them off to a place in south america where they help those with serious debilitating illnesses,and in turn find themselves and their callings.i enjoyed this film emmensley and recommend it to everyone. eventhough it is a spanish film with subtitles it should not deter you from seeing this important film. based upon real events.
On: 2005-11-30
They say you lose about 15% of the screen when you see subtitles...I say you lose more due to the fact your reading 3/4s of the time. The percentage is about 25% in my book.
Due to this loss of visual translation of the film art medium in "The Motorcycle Diaries" the viewer must see this film at least 3 times to really capture the greatness of this motion picture...yes, Its that well made and the cinematography is stunning...the best Ive seen in the past 10 years at least!
Ive seen this film 10 times and I still see new things in it that I missed before. See it...this film is a treat!
On: 2005-11-28
This is a tough review to write because of the subject matter were dealing with: a militant revolutionary who became Castros right-hand man during the 1959 Cuban revolt. But here in THE MOTORCYCLE DIARIES film, we dont see this man; we see instead the formation of the person whom this man (Ernesto "Che" Guevara played by the talented Gael GarcÃa Bernal)would become. Hes a young idealist living in South America when he and a friend (Alberto Granado played by up-and-coming actor Rodrigo de la Serna) decide to take a road trip across the continent before bellying down into their chosen carriers in medicine.
The film succeeds in giving us a very myopic view of these two men: Guevara for the initial changes he begins to go through as he witnesses injustices to the low and poor; Granado for his love of women and grudging dedication to Guevara. We travel with them on a 1939 Norton 500 motorcycle (my hats off to the two actors who had to ACTUALLY learn to ride one of these behemoths!) as they argue with each other over money, their deficient form of transportation, and Guevaras unflinching honesty when asked delicate questions (this is brought into focus when they first meet a man - who looks very German - in a small village and asks Che and Granado to look at a lump on his neck, which Granado diagnoses as a cyst but Che calls a tumor).
The cinematography was done exceptionally well on a small budget. The beauty of Machu Picchu, the green forests of Peru, the nothingness of various deserts, all added great visuals for the viewer.
The films faults lay with its omissions. Yes, Che was a thinking man. Yes, Che was concerned with humanity as a whole. But Che was also somewhat of a bigot. He didnt like blacks, jews, and homosexuals (read the book THE MOTORCYCLE DIARIES). So when he shows his concern for lepers in a colony along the Amazon River, were only see a part of this complex man. Granted, for a film you need to have your audience empathize with the main character, but this also pulls us into the shallow end of the depths that this man was. The convoluted sections of Ches life might have added an extra level of understanding for film viewers, especially those who have knowledge of his later life when he becomes an executioner of spies and deserters, quite a dichotomy compared to the hippocratic oath he took when becoming a doctor - the oath basically promising to "do no harm."
But, again, I can understand why the film makers decided to omit these sections. We are, after all, seeing only the early life of Che, a fomenting of ideas that would change his life forever. But I think we have to be careful when looking at such a potentially volatile subject and controversial man, and only showing the "sunnier" side of Che to a new generation of movie-goers. More research is needed if one really wishes to understand the levels of Che.
On: 2005-11-27
This is a tough review to write because of the subject matter were dealing with: a militant revolutionary who became Castros right-hand man during the 1959 Cuban revolt. But here in THE MOTORCYCLE DIARIES film, we dont see this man; we see instead the formation of the person whom this man (Ernesto "Che" Guevara played by the talented Gael GarcÃa Bernal)would become. Hes a young idealist living in South America when he and a friend (Alberto Granado played by up-and-coming actor Rodrigo de la Serna) decide to take a road trip across the continent before bellying down into their chosen carriers in medicine.
The film succeeds in giving us a very myopic view of these two men: Guevara for the initial changes he begins to go through as he witnesses injustices to the low and poor; Granado for his love of women and grudging dedication to Guevara. We travel with them on a 1939 Norton 500 motorcycle (my hats off to the two actors who had to ACTUALLY learn to ride one of these behemoths!) as they argue with each other over money, their deficient form of transportation, and Guevaras unflinching honesty when asked delicate questions (this is brought into focus when they first meet a man - who looks very German - in a small village and asks Che and Granado to look at a lump on his neck, which Granado diagnoses as a cyst but Che calls a tumor).
The cinematography was done exceptionally well on a small budget. The beauty of Machu Picchu, the green forests of Peru, the nothingness of various deserts, all added great visuals for the viewer.
The films faults lay with its omissions. Yes, Che was a thinking man. Yes, Che was concerned with humanity as a whole. But Che was also somewhat of a bigot. He didnt like blacks, jews, and homosexuals (read the book THE MOTORCYCLE DIARIES). So when he shows his concern for lepers in a colony along the Amazon River, were only see a part of this complex man. Granted, for a film you need to have your audience empathize with the main character, but this also pulls us into the shallow end of the depths that this man was. The convoluted sections of Ches life might have added an extra level of understanding for film viewers, especially those who have knowledge of his later life when he becomes an executioner of spies and deserters, quite a dichotomy compared to the hippocratic oath he took when becoming a doctor - the oath basically promising to "do no harm."
But, again, I can understand why the film makers decided to omit these sections. We are, after all, seeing only the early life of Che, a fomenting of ideas that would change his life forever. But I think we have to be careful when looking at such a potentially volatile subject and controversial man, and only showing the "sunnier" side of Che to a new generation of movie-goers. More research is needed if one really wishes to understand the levels of Che.
by: dzimas On: 2005-10-27
Walter Salles sweeps you along on a magical ride through South America, charting a course set by Che Guevara many years ago. What I liked most about the movie is that Salles steered clear of polemics, and thoughtfully invoked the life of Guevara, showing how this trip set the tone for the young doctors life, moving him beyond the privileged neighborhoods of Buenos Aires and into the remote villages of a continent on the brink of revolution. The sad part is that Salles was able to recapture much the same sense of degredation in these villages, as so many of these places seem lost in time. The pivotal scene comes when Guevara and Granado visit a leper colony. Gael Garcia Bernal turns in a beautifully understated performance in sharp contrast to the role he played in Y Tu Mama Tambien.
On: 2005-10-17
A Hollywood film co-produced by several countries, where the director of "Central Station" can show parts of South America for First World consumption. The question is: how you would have filmed it? (If not as a tourist travelogue). The thing is that makes Ernesto Guevara a bones and flesh man (or boy), but could had used a little bit of film magic to foreshadow without bold statements the great man that Ernesto is on the brink to become. Maybe too episodic for his own good, but all road movies have that structure. Better if you speak Spanish, and great if you are Argentinean (to feel again that is the best country of Latin America).
On: 2005-10-15
the romantic idea of a trip across the continent, the coming of age tale, the photography, the locales, the music are all fantastic. Gael Garcia Bernal and Rodrigo de la Serna are both highly talented actors and were sure to see them emerge as stars in the future (if they arent already).
i am not sure about the veracity of the claims for and against che. but the top reviewers question as to why che didnt choose gandhis path of non-violence might be that gandhis efforts were aimed at driving out a few thousand englishmen out of india and he had the backing of hundreds of millions of indians. if englishmen had numbered more or if indians numbered less or if england hadnt been economically crippled by world war 2, it is anybodys guess how succesful gandhi might have been.
but thats hardly the case with south america where there were deep divisions between the classes - rich and poor. also as che notes in the movie, he fights mainly for the mestizos - the mixed races and the aborigines of the land. but against whom? the european (spanish/portuguese) conquerors or their descendents who dominate the politics and economics of the land? (che himself looks more european than native!).
so the motives and methods of ches actions are anything but simple. needs greater research before we can damn the man.
even if the accusations against che are true, then it shows us how situation and circumstance can turn a idealistic and well meaning individual into a killer.
but the movie itself is highly enjoyable and educational. it is about the wakening of conscience. it teaches us to look beyond the narrow confines of our own self interest. great lesson for everybody today.
trivia : the name "fuser" used in the movie to refer to che, is his nickname earned due to his prowess |
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