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Manuela Sáenz

Manuela Sáenz (2000)

Jun 15, 2000 1h 37m

In 1856, a whaler arrives in Paita, Peru; on board is Herman Melville, who is astonished to learn that Manuela Sáenz, for eight years the lover of Simón Bolívar, is still alive. He calls on her, and although she will not talk to him about her life, his visit sends her to her chest of Bolívar's letters. As she reads them, the sepia-toned present gives way to flashbacks in color: she meets 'the Liberator' in 1822, becomes his lover, and also becomes a colonel in his military movement to realize the 'Gran Colombia', one nation across South America. As plague (brought by the ship) closes in on Manuela's household, so does her tempestuous story move toward Bolívar's betrayal and death.

Directed by Diego Rísquez

Cast

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Beatriz Valdés
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Beatriz Valdés

as Manuela

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Mariano Álvarez

as Simón Bolívar

Erich Wildpret
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Erich Wildpret

as Herman Melville

Orlando Urdaneta
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Orlando Urdaneta

as

Alejo Felipe
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Alejo Felipe

as

Asdrúbal Meléndez
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Asdrúbal Meléndez

as

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Juan Carlos Alarcón

as

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Manuel Salazar

as

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Juan Manuel Montesinos

as

Crew

Director
  • Diego Rísquez
Writer
  • Leonardo Padrón

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Thematic Analysis

Manuela Sáenz represents a fascinating example of cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Diego Rísquez 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2000, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Manuela Sáenz took approximately 3 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 97 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 134 minutes long.
  • The musical score contains over 42 unique compositions.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.

Historical Context

  • In 2000, when this film is released:
  • The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
  • Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
  • Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: June 15, 2000
  • Runtime: 1h 37m

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