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Che!

Che! (1969)

Jun 27, 1969 1h 36m Drama Adventure

Biography of Argentinian revolutionary Ernesto "Che" Guevara, who helped Fidel Castro in his struggle against the corrupt Batista regime, eventually resulting in the overthrow of that government and Castro's taking over of Cuba. The film covers Guevara's life from when he first landed in Cuba in 1956 to his death in an ambush by government troops in the mountains of Bolivia in 1967.

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Directed by Richard Fleischer

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Richard Fleischer
Producer
  • Sy Bartlett

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Che! examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Richard Fleischer brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1969, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Che! took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 96 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 145 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
  • The costume department created over 409 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The film contains approximately 1604 individual shots.

Historical Context

  • In 1969, when this film was released:
  • Social and cultural revolution was transforming Western societies.
  • Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

While Che! shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Tee Shot: Ariya Jutanugarn, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Che! offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like 1987 and Honor Thy Father explore similar territory, Che! stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: June 27, 1969
  • Runtime: 1h 36m

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