Change Your Image
Chenzino
Reviews
Diarios de motocicleta (2004)
Take this film with a pinch of salt and an open mind.
"Diarios de Motocicleta" shows you the trip that would turn the man into the legend. Che Guevara is not recognised as Che throughout the film, as he was given that name when he met up with Fidel and Raúl Castro in Mexico some years later, as an urine extraction (piss take) of his Argentinian speech. *factoid* the word "che" comes from the Italian emigrants that moved to Argentina in the late 1800s and early 1900s.*
The subtle poke at the American's (people from the USA) exploitations comes in a variety of shapes, like "The American Mining Corporation". The reason for this being that the film is seen from Ernesto's perspective. Being a student of Hispanic culture, I have acquired a great deal of knowledge of South America, and this film sums up all the worst (and most interesting) atrocities that come to pass in this seemingly forgotten corner of the globe.
Ernesto Guevara's compassion is well portrayed throughout the film, and shows the side of him that is a huge contrast to his stereotypical image; the evil communist that was ruthless in his guerrilla warfare. Take this film with a pinch of salt, especially if you're not used to seeing things from a different perspective, as although not shocking, it punches a huge hole in western culture and capitalism.
Although the emphasis is on Che, "Diarios de Motocicleta" has an underlying message to follow your dreams, stand up for what you believe in and question the justifications of the world's more subtle crimes.
With the right mind-set, this film can be incredibly enlightening. Top notch.
Scum (1979)
This film will shake you to the core.
Scum is a film set in a 1970s English Borstal (a prison for young offenders). It shows you the lives of these boys and the 'screws' (the officers). You'll find yourself gripped from the start at an unlikely protagonist in the shape of Carlin (Ray Winstone), as a racist criminal that in most other contexts would conjure serious antipathy. The plot takes you through the experiences of the boys: Carlin's battle to become 'The Daddy', Archer's (Mick Ford) fight against the 'scews' using their own system against them, and the suffering that the other boys endure. Scum produces a reality that shows it how it is, nothing is covered up nor overly graphic. This all leads up to a horrific open conclusion that will leave your mouth dropped and your mind pensive. No matter how desensitised you are, this film will shake you to the core, I couldn't describe it any other way. A masterpiece.
Jam (2000)
Brilliant, offencive, innovative, hilarious.
Brilliant, offencive, innovative, hilarious. Just four of the words I would use to describe a programme more surreal than Monty Python and The Mighty Boosh combined. Jam goes beyond the conventional thinking outside the box; it ambitiously and successfully thinks outside the storage depot. You'll find yourself whirling in a pool of confusion, not knowing whether to laugh or maintain the uncomfortable silence that the intro produces. The music score creates a ambiance that either reflects the scene perfectly, or creates a relaxing contrast to an awkward situation. If you're offended easily by taboo topics, then Jam isn't for you. If, however, your evening meal comprises of going to an Indian restaurant and attacking your friend because he broke the popodoms, then welcome in Jam.