Captivating Cuba

Here at Captivating Cuba, there's always something of a thrill whenever Cuba is featured in a film, so you can imagine the excitement when we heard about Che Part 1! Not only is it set almost entirely in Cuba, it also focuses in on one of the most famous and controversial Cuban figures - Ernesto 'Che' Guevara. This first part concentrates on his part in the Cuban Revolution, the second will revolve around his eventual death in another revolution in Bolivia.

So is it any good? Yes, but it might not be for everyone. Benicio Del Toro (who plays Che Guevara) is excellent, the screenplay is convincing, and the whole thing is very well shot by Steven Soderbergh (the battle of Santa Clara that takes up the last third of the film is particularly stunning). On the other hand, you don't come out of the film feeling as though you know Che any more personally than when you came in. It shows the process of guerrilla warfare in great detail, but there are no personal moments, no times when you get under the skin of Che. Some people will certainly be frustrated by this! But as a depiction of just how the Cuban Revolution was fought and won, its hard to imagine a more realistic or stirring film.

It very much feels like the part of something bigger - I'll have to reserve final judgement until I've seen the second act. Che Part 2 comes out at the start of February - I'll be sure to let you know what I think! But if you are at all interested in Cuba, the Revolution, or Che Guevara, it is definitely worth a look - be sure to let us know what you think!

Peter

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