IFFK Assignment - Marighella Review

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 This rousing saga about the iconic leader Marighella follows the template of gangster-flicks.

Seu Jorge starring Marighella traces the life of late Brazilian communist leader, politician and guerilla fighter Carlos Marighella. The film begins with an exhilarating train heist scene. Marighella, the title character makes his entry then, for which the whole theatre roars with applause. This happens very rarely in my state of Kerala where the majority of the audience do not cheer when they are not familiar with the actor who played the character or have any idea about the storyline. This hints at how well-made the scene is. Similarly throughout the film, it succeeds in playing to the gallery with the aid of great acting and captivating dialogues. 

Click here to watch the trailer of Marighella
 
Based on the book Marighella The Guerrilla fighter that Lighted the World, the movie has a runtime that exceeds two and a half hours. This usually become tedious for viewers, but it is surprisingly well-written and hence holds their interest. There are several scenes where Marighella mouths lines about communism and humanity. They don't seem forced at all and are thoroughly entertaining. Bruno Gagliasso’s menacing cop role could easily be one among the finest villain performances ever. He is terrifying whenever he appears on the screen. There are many extremely violent scenes in the film, still none of them feels to be overdone. The making and narration are similar to many renowned gangster sagas of the past like ‘The Godfather. The film tells about Marighella’s ascension to prominence where he was constantly on the run from cops and slowly works up to his downfall. Seu Jorge is convincing as the great leader, especially in the scenes which explore the relationship with his son. The actor’s ability to emote has a great impact on the character. Other aspects like the background score and stunt choreography are also equally appealing till the end.

Marighella, although not a classic definitely can boast of all the makings of one.

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