Facing a violent military dictatorship and an intimidating opposition, writer-turned-politician Carlos Marighella articulates a resistance all the while ousting heinous crimes of torture and the infamous censorship instituted by the regime.
In 1964, politician, writer, and activist, Carlos Marighella (Seu Jorge), wrote a training manual called ‘The Minimanual of the Urban Guerilla,’ which illustrates how to disrupt authority with guerrilla warfare leading to the revolution and liberation of the people. This film reveals how Marighella formed a team of powerful revolutionaries, initiating an uprising against the government. Implementing irregular warfare tactics like ambushing, raids, sabotaging, and robbing banks to pay for guns and other supplies, Marighella fought by any means necessary. With strong allies helping publish and distribute his literature, his message spread to many people who too wanted change.
Unfortunately, all leaders must be taken down and Marighella was no exception. Sadly, one of his own is used against him by law enforcement, resulting in a devastating ending. I really enjoyed this film, mainly because I’m a sucker for stories about ordinary people fighting to create change in the world. There are some really bloody, torturous scenes, just to warn you but overall, I thought the cast and director did a great job. By the way, this is Wagner Moura’s directorial debut. The only thing I would change is the length of the film, which is roughly 155 minutes, which is way too long in my opinion. This story definitely could have been told in under two hours without leaving out any great details but other than that it’s worth seeing.
“Marighella” opens Friday, May 1st
