Bolivar soy yo

Anyone with some interest in Colombia (or the region) would probably find this film worthwhile. Though comical, it does have serious undertones, but it is not political in a partisan sense. The perilous title role is handled deftly by Robinson Diaz and Amparo Grisales is lovely in a supporting role. I think the movie succeeds on its own terms. The filmmakers seem to have been seeking a certain tone, not so easy to do in this case, but I would say they got it right.

Though the plot was often hard to follow the movie was funny and enjoyable to watch. Following Santiago through his "self-discovery" as Simón Bolívar is both saddening and uplifting as the plot unfolds. The fact that the Bolivar soy yo is filmed from the perspective of a movie about a soap opera adds an interesting twist. The plot often borders on ridiculousness and any important theme that may have been intended is lost in the shadows of the storyline. One leaves the movie having completely enjoyed themselves but feeling slightly confused as to what actually happened. I would recommend this movie to anyone, even if they did not speak Spanish.

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.

If you do not know much about Columbian history, this will spark your interest. The director, Jorge Alí Triana, has a knack for intriguing the viewer and making them want to research the life Simon Bolivar. When Santiago Miranda says that Simon Bolivar did not die the way that they depict in the soap opera that he plays a role in, it is intriguing. It forces the viewer to ask, how did he really die? That is a question that many have been asking for a long time. Also, the comedic relief in this film is genius. It keeps you on your toes, and it breaks up the dismal view that the viewer gets of Santiago, who seems insane at certain points in the movie. The viewers feel pity for him, mostly.

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.'