The Motorcycle Diaries (Diarios de motocicleta)

Grade: A-

That singular life experience that forever changes who one is and the path one takes. For some something profound is discovered – a sense of oneself, a passion for a vocation, limitations exceeded. For others something is profoundly shattered – one’s heart broken, one’s idealism put to the test, one's naiveté lost. Often, what is lost and what is gained is inseparable.

Two young men travel a continent together, discovering new worlds, harsh realities and, in so doing, themselves. One will become a revolutionary. It is not difficult to appreciate how this quietly absorbing journey forms the foundation for who he will one day become. A couple who traverse the country in search of work no one else wants, unable to grasp the concept of traveling for travel sake alone. Sleeping alongside migrant workers. Charmingly conning people out of food, lodging and chastity. Lepers who find humanity in the shake of an ungloved hand. This travelogue never attempts to overwhelm one with import or suggest sky parting moments of deep personal recognition. Few individual snapshots are in and of themselves overtly moving or given more weight than their due. It is all the more surprising that the work as a whole slowly weaves a photo album that is so richly poignant and personal. What was begun as a horizon expanding experience, a chance to enjoy, observe and report, instead redefines their beliefs, expanding their souls instead.

Gael García Bernal has charisma to burn as the man who will be Che Guevera. Quietly observing, soaking up the lives of those he encounters, a kindhearted youth from the outset who nevertheless becomes even more empathetic with every new mile traveled. Allowing his innocence to be lost through his very sense of honestly, decency, purity and sincerity. Pushing himself through to something more than he had been before. Rodrigo De La Serna demonstrates that goodness and decency can be robust rather than somber. His Zorba lust for life and joy of dance and women never makes one question is inherent sense of loyalty or compassion.

“Is it possible to be nostalgic for a world one has never known?” we are asked. This tale of friendship, personal growth, and mutual responsibility sweetly compels one to visit that very question.

More Movie Info: http://imdb.com/title/tt0318462/