Dave’s Movie Review:

Based on the journals and notes of Ernesto “Che” Guevara and Alberto Granado, this true story is beautifully presented and engaging from start to finish. Set in 1951-52 medical students Alberto and Ernesto (nicknamed “Fuser” and later “Che”) travel more than 10,000+ kilometers throughout South America on their 12-year-old motorcycle affectionately referred to as “The Mighty One.” Director Walter Salles Jr. does a great job endearing these men to the viewer over the course of their truly epic trip. Fuser and Alberto have fun chasing women, drinking, dancing, and struggling with their p.o.s. motorcycle. They also argue, learn, and have their eyes opened to the world’s injustices.
One of several great devices in the movie is the way Guevara’s memories/daydreams are shown in black and white, with a factual, journalistic still frame quality–although the subjects do move enough to remind you how real and present they are.
At the end of the movie it’s clear Guevara has been changed by his experiences, and is unlikely to return to his final semester of medical school. Alberto staying behind in Venezuela and seeing his friend off (back to Argentina) calls him “Che” for the first time, instead of the usual Fuser. Significant? Only if you know that Che goes on to become a Cuban revolutionary. This movie was smart, fun, and worth every second of my time…and Tamami’s money.