Che Guevara is unquestionably one of the most important political figures of the 20th century, as he led several noteworthy campaigns within the Cuban Revolution that shaped the democratic makeup of modern South America. Given that Guevara was both a significant political leader and an iconic force in popular culture, it is no surprise that his life story has been adapted to the big screen several times; Steven Soderbergh even cast Benicio del Toro in an epic two-part historical drama called Che. However, the legendary director Walter Salles opted to take a different route when he adapted Guevara’s memoir The Motorcycle Diaries. By lifting from the words that would go on to define Guevara’s life, The Motorcycle Diaries is a compelling coming-of-age drama about the moments that shaped a future revolutionary hero.
What Is ‘The Motorcycle Diaries’ About?
Gael García Bernal stars in The Motorcycle Diaries as a younger version of Guevara who, in 1952, decides to take a trek across South America on a motorcycle alongside his best friend, Alberto Granado (Rodrigo de la Serna). Although Guevara’s intention is to reach a colony in Peru where he may find work, the trip is also his last chance to have a sense of freedom after finishing his medical degree and graduating. The trip is filled with the drugs, partying, and fine cuisine that both young men expected, but they are also exposed to a great deal of suffering as the result of the totalitarian regime; many admitted Communists have been forced into exile due to their political beliefs, families are left starving without resources, and many cities are highly polluted. Even though Guevara is still coming into his own as a young man, he takes note of how ignorance and indifference have led to a declining situation in which those in need are deprived of any help or compassion.
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The Motorcycle Diaries makes use of its formless structure in order to capture the series of escapades that Guevara and Granado have over the course of their journey. Real life cannot be easily divided into a three-act structure, and the film’s rejection of a standard formula makes it feel more realistic. The encapsulation of an observational, introspective style of storytelling bears much in common with the “beat generation” of American writers that emerged at the same time; coincidentally, Salles ended up capturing this same theme when he crafted an adaptation of the classic Jack Kerouac novel On the Road. The film is also smart enough to examine Guevara as a relatable character who has not yet shaped his ideals; while there are hints of the empathy and intelligence that would go on to make him a great leader, The Motorcycle Diaries acknowledges that he is still a young man who has not made up his mind about what he wants to do with the rest of his life.
‘The Motorcycle Diaries’ Previews Che Guevara’s Political Leanings
The Motorcycle Diaries offers an origin story for Guevara’s eventual political career, as it is evident that it was this trip that informed his subsequent beliefs. While Guevara was broadly aware of what was going on throughout the continent in the abstract, seeing how people were being mistreated firsthand was a much different experience. At times, the degree to which people are disenfranchised becomes very debilitating to Guevara, as he struggles to comprehend why so many of his acquaintances have resigned themselves to lives of misery. In some ways, this offers an explanation as to why Guevara’s career was highlighted by such unyielding passion as the final title cards hint—he worked for the freedom of his people up until his assassination by the CIA in 1967.
Although the examination of wealth inequality can at times be upsetting, The Motorcycle Diaries is a surprisingly entertaining road trip movie that shows how exciting it can be to view the world through the prism of youth. Guevara was obviously a politician who formed deep personal relationships with the people that he represented, and Bernal shows that thanks to his inherent charisma. Even if the film is ultimately about the events that led to a revolution, it is ultimately an uplifting and positive portrayal of the people of South America.
The Motorcycle Diaries is available to rent on Amazon in the United States.
The Motorcycle Diaries
The Motorcycle Diaries is a poignant biographical film directed by Walter Salles, based on the memoirs of Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevara. In 1952, a young Guevara embarks on a transformative motorcycle journey across South America with his friend Alberto Granado. As they traverse diverse landscapes and encounter various indigenous communities, the experiences deeply affect Guevara’s worldview, shaping his future as a revolutionary leader. This film beautifully captures the essence of youthful adventure and the awakening of social consciousness, set against the stunning backdrop of the Latin American countryside. It’s a tale of friendship and self-discovery.
- Release Date
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February 6, 2004
- Cast
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Gael García Bernal
, Rodrigo De la Serna
, Mercedes Morán
, Jean Pierre Noher
, Lucas Oro
, Marina Glezer - Runtime
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126 minutes
- Main Genre
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Biography
