CESAR CHAVEZ (Theatrical Release USA 2014)

Ben Meyers’ rating: 3.4|5.0 Stars ììì

Cesar Chavez fails to tell its story. The first challenge is the script. It works as if there is not enough story to put a movie together when that definitely is not the case. The second challenge is casting John Malkovich with Michael Peña. It’s a poor casting choice. The third challenge is weak acting. The film follows Cesar Chavez’ attempt to organize migrant workers into a union; but it fails to do justice to Mr. Chavez’ life.

Storyline

Cesar Chavez takes on the fight for farm workers.

Additional Thanks

Thank you to Director Diego Luna for directing effort. Thank you to Executive Producers Gael Garcia Bernal and John Malkovich for making the film possible. Additional characters/cast include: American Lady (Kerry Adra), Chato Chavez (Maynor Alvarado), Gilbert Padilla (Yancey Arias), and Jerry Cohen (Wes Bentley).

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?

Maybe. The story needs more force and power to tell its story well. Charles Bronson's Mr. Majestyk tells a much stronger story about the difficulties of agriculture, migrant workers, mafia, and law enforcement issues.

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers