Verdict: Soderbergh’s second film that features del Toro is an accomplishment. A cinematic one and a dramatic one rolled into 2 hours of film.
Style: It has this textured feel to it, illuminated by the deft strokes of Soderbergh’s camera shots. The performances melt seamlessly within the black & white look of certain sections and the lush colour of the jungle set pieces. It creates a visually arresting contrast that is at some points, quite breathtaking.
Performances: When I watching the film, I was surprised by how nuanced and subdued del Toro’s performance is. He was controlled and subtle, at the times when I thought he would be sprawling and ostentatious. It was lovely performance and there is something about him that controls the screen with each frame, regardless of who ever is in it. And no, it has nothing to do with him being absolutely gorgeous.
Demian Bichir, who played Fidel Castro, was also one to watch. I really liked seeing the interaction of both Bichir & del Toro in this film – it looks warm and natural.
In many ways, Che: Part One feels like a paean to the dead leader, remembering what his political ideals stood for and the purpose of ideas and how they create men. I am intrigued to see how Che: Part Two (aka Guerilla) works out and I cannot wait til 20 February 2009, when it gets its’ UK release.
4/5 coals.
Trivia
- del Toro won the Best Actor Award unanimously at Cannes 2008. No surprise there.
- Both movies together are about 4 hours long
- Guevara’s widow sent del Toro a congratulatory note when he won the award at Cannes.
- Both films were financed without US money
- It took 8 years to set up and only 79 days to shoot both films
@SDG: Yes, he seemed so complex. There are photos of him on wikipedia in Congo-Kinshasha with african people. He was interested in the plight of africans.
I think he’s fascinating. His widow still continues his teachings apparently. I thought the film was really good.
It had a lovely, naturalistic film. And it helps that the actor is very easy on the eyes.
I read a book on Che about a decade ago that was phenomenal. I can’t remember the name off the top of my head, but I’m going to find out. I gave to a friend and haven’t seen it since. lol
He was an interesting and complex man. He’s not “easy” and can’t IMHO be placed in a box and left there you know?