lorna_deb Reviews

The Motorcycle Diaries (2004)

Immaculate diaries

[12 January 2005]

No words can fully describe what a magnificent film this is. Characters are vividly and naturally portrayed by the two protagonists, Gael García Bernal (Ernesto 'Che' Guevara De La Serna) and Rodrigo De La Serna (Alberto Granado). These two actors really bring out the differences in character of the travelling friends. While the former is more introvert and thoughtful, the latter's joking side gets the best of him. One can almost sense, through García Bernal's eyes and facial expression, the change that is slowly taking place in him as he meets several examples of injustice along his voyage. One must not forget to mention the amazing scenery in the film (the ruins of Machu Picchu is a fine example) and also the brilliant soundtrack that accompanies most memorable scenes in the film. Brazilian director Walter Salles has succeeded in delivering a masterpiece. A gem of a film!

The Crime of Padre Amaro (2002)

La mala religión

[2 December 2004]

I've just seen 'The Crime of Padre Amaro' today and I liked it a lot. Performances are very powerful, especially those by the two main characters, el Padre Amaro (Gael García Bernal) and Amelia (Ana Claudia Talancón). Again, Gael proves he not only has good looks but a great acting talent to match. Having recently seen 'La mala educación', it was ironic to see him play the part of a clergyman in 'The Crime of Padre Amaro' when in the former, he couldn't stand the sight of priests! I didn't see the film as being slow-moving. Rather, it keeps you on edge, wondering how it will all end. Also, the film is a curious and intelligent study of corruption and its influence on people surrounding it. Not a film to miss!

Bad Education (2004)

Utterly brilliant

[27 November 2004]

With 'La Mala Educación' Pedro Almodóvar has surpassed himself. It's a very intelligent film with wisely-chosen actors. Gael García Bernal is simply magnificent in portraying three very different characters. This goes to show that he's not only got looks but also a great talent. It couldn't have been easy for him, especially when doing the role of Zahara! Fele Martínez is also very good as Enrique, Ignacio's beloved childhood friend. A round of applause goes to the young Ignacio as well. One can see the anxiety in his eyes when Father Manolo approaches him. The latter's frustration is very clearly brought out in the direction of certain scenes by Almodóvar. Definitely not a film to miss!