Bolivar soy yo

A friend loaned me this film and I'm glad he did. I am not knowledgeable on either the history of Simon Bolivar or current day Columbia, but this was not a barrier to enjoying the story. The protagonist is a lead in a very popular historical soap opera in which he plays Simon Bolivar. It is clear that the TV show is not going for historical accuracy, but is content to focus on Bolivar's love affairs. The script calls for Bolivar to be shot before a firing squad. Our protagonist begins to identify strongly with the character, especially the latter's dreams of a unified Columbia. He bolts from the set just before he is shot and visits the current president of Columbia who is a fan and invites him attend a political rally, where he feels he can benefit from the actor's popularity. A series of adventures ensue in which the lead character fluctuates between his own identity and that of Bolivar, moving more toward the latter as the film progresses. The humorous situations that follow are able to show how Bolivar's dream of a united Columbia have been thwarted by selfish politicians on both the right and left. This type of film often unravels about half way through, but "Bolivar Is Me" manages to reach the ending with flying colors. Very enjoyable on several levels. 7 of 10.

Based on a real story, this awesome film is pure magic realism. It is one of those films that are able to mix tragedy and humor, something characteristic of Latin America. Being Colombian I think I find in this movie a vivid portrait of the reality of my country; it depicts the dreams of our liberator, the dreams the common people have about him, and the realities of an amazing and contradictory country. The humor in this film is not just about simple jokes, it is a social criticism. Perhaps the only thing that could make this movie a bad one is the viewer. Either if you are an expert of the Colombian conflict or someone who has no idea about it, I definitely recommend `Bolívar soy yo.'

I´m german living in Colombia and I enjoyed it. Yes, Colombia has serious problems and even in the best case real improvements of the situation will take decades. But in the meantime it´s a good idea to have self ironic view on it... Real life only has to be exaggerated a bit to have an absurd comedy. I really like this variance of latin humor. On the other hand, one great idea (an actor converts in a national hero) doesn´t make a great movie. Colombian telenovelas often have better stories with more details and better dialogues. Summing up I give a 6 of 10.

I've seen this movie twice in a week.

I think Jorge Ali Triana, the director, is a genius. He says things he feels, but said through Bolivar mouth. It's an impact seeing Simon Bolivar addressing to the presidents, in a very hard way, telling them his ideals had been taken in a wrong way, using his name in schools that teach nothing, in guerrillas made for killing brothers, in institutions using corrupted ways to get their goals.

I must add I consider myself as a San Martin follower, but this movie has made me change a little bit my opinion about Simon Bolivar, his fight and ideals, and the way he stand for his principles.

I saw the film "Bolívar soy yo" yesterday (October 2, 2002). It was shown in the 33rd International Film Festival of India. Jorge Ali Triana was present in the auditorium. I am moved. I have never dreamt that based on the life of the 'Great Liberator' of Latin America i.e. Simon Bolivar, a serious film like 'Bolívar soy yo' could be made. I am really moved.