The Motorcycle Diaries

Director: Walter Salles
Year Released: 2004
Rating: 2.0

Young Ernesto Guevara and friend take a motorcycle trip through South America - it's suggested by Salles that this was the defining experience in Guevara's life, before he became 'Che' (or what kicked off the process of becoming 'Che') and 'fell in love with the people.' This, of course, belies the truth of Guevara's shady political beliefs, admiration for Stalin and totalitarian ideals - it's selling the positive image of 'Che' to people who probably don't know any better or perhaps have the 'Che' poster hanging in their room. That said, it's a well-shot and atmospheric film that doesn't particularly go anywhere but doesn't offend the senses, either - it may even remind you (as it did for me) of a memorable road trip you may have taken in your own life, meeting strangers and getting a warm feeling towards humanity. Thankfully, not all road trips signify the beginning of a malicious political worldview or foretell death by Bolivian soldiers and the CIA, but I digress....