Film Lens
Chevolution is a 2008 documentary that examines the history and legacy of the iconic photo Guerrillero Heroico, taken by Cuban photographer Alberto Díaz Gutiérrez, known as Alberto Korda. The film recounts the circumstances surrounding the photo's capture during a funeral in Havana for victims of a bombing. It discusses how the image has been interpreted and commercialized over the years, becoming a symbol of various ideals related to Che Guevara.
The documentary features contributions from artists, musicians, and academics, presenting contrasting themes of communism and capitalism, idealism and opportunism. It shows the role of Giangiacomo Feltrinelli, who mass-produced the photo without crediting Korda, leading to debates about copyright and commercialization. The film also includes a variety of songs dedicated to Che, reflecting his impact on pop culture.
Why Watch
- •See Alberto Korda's journey from fashion to revolutionary photography.
- •Find out how Che's image became a global icon.
- •Meet artists like Shepard Fairey discussing Che's legacy.
Did You Know
•Alberto Korda left fashion photography to document the Cuban Revolution.
•Giangiacomo Feltrinelli printed hundreds of thousands of Che posters in 1976.
•Korda captured the Guerrillero Heroico photo during a funeral in Havana.
•Copyright laws in communist Cuba meant Korda had no rights to his photo.
Perfect For
Cuban historyIconic photographyPolitical symbolism