Film Lens
Che: Rise and Fall is a documentary film by Eduardo Montes-Bradley, focusing on the life and legacy of Che Guevara. It was filmed in Cuba during the return of Guevara's remains from Bolivia to Santa Clara, his final resting place. The film features testimonies from Guevara's comrades, including Alberto Granado, who traveled with him from Argentina, and members of his military entourage during his campaigns in Sierra Maestra, Congo, and Bolivia. The documentary begins with an account of Guevara's death in Bolivia in 1967 and concludes with footage of the ceremony for his remains in Santa Clara's Revolution Square 30 years later.
The film includes original archival footage and photographs taken by Guevara himself. It presents an oral history told by those who knew him, distinguishing it from other biographical films. The documentary captures Guevara's experiences, including his struggles in the Congo Revolutionary War and his sense of failure, which contributed to his decision to organize a guerrilla movement in Bolivia.
Why Watch
- •See Guevara's return ceremony in Santa Clara, 30 years later.
- •Meet Alberto Granado, Guevara's childhood friend and companion.
- •Find out about Guevara's struggles in the Congo Revolutionary War.
Did You Know
•The documentary premiered on National Geographic Channel on June 14, 2007.
•It was shot in Cuba, Bolivia, and undisclosed locations in Africa.
•The film was registered with the U.S. Copyright Office in 2006.
•It includes footage from the 1998 documentary 'Che, a man of this world'.
Perfect For
Cuban historyRevolutionary movementsLatin American studies