

Movie spotlight
Che: Rise and Fall
Che: Rise and Fall, was entirely shot in Cuba at the time the remains of the legendary warrior were being airlifted from Bolivia to his final resting place in Santa Clara. The documentary brings out, for the first time, the voice of his brothers in arms in Sierra Maestra, Congo and Bolivia. But above all, that of Alberto Granados with whom the young CHE Guevara rode on a motorcycle out of Argentina on a trip that will end, tragically, sixteen years later in the jungles of Bolivia.
Insights
Plot Summary
This biographical drama chronicles the life of Marxist revolutionary Ernesto 'Che' Guevara. The film focuses on his pivotal role in the Cuban Revolution and his subsequent attempts to incite communist revolutions in other countries. It examines his ideological journey, military strategies, and the eventual downfall that led to his capture and execution.
Critical Reception
Critically, 'Che: Rise and Fall' garnered significant attention, particularly for Benicio del Toro's portrayal of Che Guevara and Steven Soderbergh's unique directorial approach. While praised for its ambition and historical scope, some critics found its lengthy, episodic structure challenging. Audience reception was more mixed, with some appreciating the nuanced depiction of a complex historical figure and others finding it slow-paced and politically dense.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for Benicio del Toro's committed performance and Soderbergh's bold, non-linear narrative.
Criticized by some for its length and deliberate pacing, which can make the film feel demanding.
Lauded for its unflinching look at the complexities and often grim realities of revolution.
Google audience: Google users generally appreciated the film's authenticity and Benicio del Toro's performance, often highlighting its thought-provoking nature. However, some found the movie to be too long and somewhat inaccessible due to its segmented structure and focus on the less glamorous aspects of revolutionary struggle.
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for the Palme d'Or at the 2008 Cannes Film Festival (the film was screened in two parts there, with 'Rise and Fall' being the second part). Benicio del Toro won Best Actor at Cannes for his dual role in both parts of 'Che'.
Fun Fact
Steven Soderbergh initially intended to make 'Che' as a single, five-hour film, but decided to split it into two parts to make it more palatable for theatrical distribution and allow audiences to digest the complex narrative.
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