Bolivar Is Me

Rating:
Summary: Finally a Colombian Film...
Review: This is a very critical and interesting film about one of the most important and traditional icons in the Colombian history and culture. The idea to bring back Simon Bolivar to our times is just hilarious and original. The whole story is an irony of the bitter situation of Colombia. I think the director (Jorge Ali Triana) did an excellent job displaying a collage in which the viewers get many different facets and perspectives of Colombian life. The acting of the main character is great (Robinson Diaz who has an obsession with Bolivar)and the setting is beautiful, it contrasts the present, the past, the urban and the rural spaces(Bogota, the country side, the little towns, the rivers, etc.). Unfortunately, the acting of some other characters is really limited and poor. Amparo Grisales for instance (still very pretty and attractive)fails the expectations of her fans.
The ending of the film is very strong and questions the future of Colombia. Do not forget to listen carefully to one of the songs played by Atercioplelados (Colombian alternative music band)when the movie is over and the screem is showing the cast...it is very cool (I have not found it yet in none of their CDs).
In order to enjoy better this film you should review the history of South America (particularly the ninetheen century)and get familiar a little bit with the figure of Bolivar otherwise you will miss many important details of it.
Other Colombian films I recommend to readers are La Vendedora de Rosas, La Virgen de los Sicarios and Rodrigo D No Futuro (moving and thematically profound Colombian films but not accessible to everyone...)