The Duchess

SYNOPSIS:

Keira Knightly (Georgiana Spencer)  is arranged to be married to the Duke of Devonshire (Ralph Fiennes). After marriage, a love/hate triangle ensues. Keira discovers that there is no love in the marriage and she was only used to produce an heir to the throne.

MY TAKE:

This is a film about broken relationships. It is about how status and power and greed can corrupt the heart and mind. It's only natural to feel for Keira, as she tries to weave her way through the mess of corruption that is Devonshire, only to find herself trapped at every possible outlet. I found myself uncomfortable throughout the film because I couldn't find a redeeming quality among any of the supporting characters, and the one that I did feel for, was trapped at every turn.

Where this film falls flat is in it's supporting characters and can be exampled in the Duke of Devonshire.  He is introduced as an isolated, glacial man who's sole desire an heir to his throne. In all of his cynicism, there is a perfect opportunity to learn where this man came from, yet the film never produces such a story. With the Duke, I know that I hate him and that's how I'm supposed to feel about him for the rest of the film.  Where's the fun in that? I need to not know if I like him or not. I want that inner conflict within myself to keep me guessing.  This is consistent with the rest of the supporting characters and the film lacks depth because of it.

One thing to admire is that this film chronicles the journey of a woman that doesn't stop fighting against her unfortunate circumstances.  She is determined to persevere.  This journey or resilience was inspiring and with all it's feminism also helped me tap into my inner beauty.

Overall I would rate it 6 out of 10.

Che: Part One & Part Two

What does it take to lead a movement?  That's the question facing Che Guevara on his journey to bring a revolution to Latin America.

It's a film divided into two parts, and benefits from it.  The first installment focuses on Che's success in bringing a revolution to Cuba; a period of growth and inspiration.  The second focuses on his difficulties in Bolivia; an agonizing portrayal of a dysfunctional implosion to a once growing movement.

Without focusing on the history or politics of the figure, and attempting to put aside personal opinion of Che himself, here's my take from what was presented in the movie:


SYNOPSIS:
Part 1:

We first find out Cuba's problems and therefore quickly side with Che and Fidel Castro, the men that initiate the revolution.  Che values humanity, and sees the importance in personal relationships.  This brings unity to his newly forming army, and sets up a formula for success when the troops have rely on each other and face adversity.  Che is the brains and heart of the movement, bringing a set of core principles to the table.  As more peasants get word of this secret underground movement, more begin approaching the army to join.

Part 2:
Che leaves the height of his success in leadership to pursue the next daunting task; create the same, now world famous, revolution in Bolivia.  With much gained from his experience in Cuba, this movement takes off quickly, but soon meets opposition as Che's troops are divided by an intuitive Bolivian government and American military presence.


The film's style is what makes it exceptional.  We are the fly on the wall, all witnessing history develop.  Che's speech to the UN in 1964 gives a subjective narration steady throughout the film and provides further insight.  The pace definitely takes it's time, but don't worry, caffeine is beneficial.

Important to note is the performance by Benicio Del Toro as Che Guevara.  If nothing else, watch the movie for his groundbreaking portrayal.


MISE EN SCENE:

It's how Director/DP Steven Soderbergh initiates scenes that spark my interest the most.  I can think of one scene in particular to give a formula for the rest.  In this scene, Soderbergh begins with beautifully photographed inserts, paired with rapidly paced ethnic music and a conversation coming from a yet to be identified source.  He focuses on inserts of army uniforms on a table. Simple enough, but coupled with the dialogue and music it makes for an interesting juxtaposition.  He then moves back to reveal workers folding these uniforms.  The workers move outside the bunker
and pass by Che and another soldier talking. We've now identified the source of dialogue and press on with the rest of the scene. This formula is prominent throughout the film and gives you a consistent, solid impression that there is more happening elsewhere.  Instead of watching the revolution, you feel it's presence.


It's a beautiful piece of storytelling.  Drink some coffee, sit back and enjoy.