“Daniel 1983” is a film about two brothers caught in the crosshairs of political turmoil.
It’s a tense drama that explores the complexities of family loyalty and political allegiance.
The film is a poignant reminder of how high the stakes can be when ideologies clash.
It’s an emotional journey that will linger with you long after it ends, leaving you questioning your own beliefs.
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Review
As a writer, Gabriel Garcia Marquez had a way of telling stories with unparalleled depth and richness. His signature style is alive and well in the movie, “Daniel,” which brings to life the complex world of politics, family dynamics and human struggles.
At first glance, “Daniel” might seem like just another political drama set amid the turmoil of South America in the 1960s. But as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that this is a movie that goes far beyond surface-level conflicts and power struggles.
The movie revolves around the character of Daniel (played by Jimmy Smits), a young man who returns home to his native country after years of living in exile. He arrives during a period of intense political turmoil, where authoritarian regimes are clashing with student activists and union leaders.
Despite his best efforts to stay neutral, Daniel is soon drawn into this world of conflict and intrigue. He becomes involved in a love affair with Lucia (played by Lumi Cavazos), a woman whose own political allegiances are far from clear. Along the way, he must confront his own demons and make difficult moral choices that will shape his future.
The plot of “Daniel” is dense and multi-layered, but it’s brought to life by an exceptional cast who bring nuance and depth to their roles. Jimmy Smits delivers an outstanding performance as Daniel, capturing his internal struggles with authenticity and emotion.
Lumi Cavazos also shines as Lucia, imbuing her character with a quiet strength that makes her one of the most compelling figures in the movie. Other standout performances include Enrique Lucero as Don Gustavo, an aging politician whose own loyalties are tested throughout the film.
One aspect of “Daniel” that stands out is its incredible attention to detail when it comes to setting and atmosphere. The film captures the look and feel of 1960s South America perfectly – from dusty streets filled with protesters to the smoky air of underground political meetings.
The soundtrack is also exceptional, with a mix of original music and period tracks that add to the film’s overall sense of time and place. The score is haunting and evocative, perfectly capturing the film’s themes of love, loss and political upheaval.
Despite its many strengths, “Daniel” is not without its flaws. Some may find the movie slow-moving or overly dense at times, as it takes its time exploring complex political issues and nuanced character interactions. However, those who stick with it will be rewarded with a richly rewarding film that offers plenty of food for thought.
Overall, “Daniel” is an exceptional movie that showcases the very best of Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s storytelling style. It’s a film that explores complex themes with depth and nuance while never losing sight of its characters’ humanity. Whether you’re a fan of political dramas or simply appreciate great filmmaking, “Daniel” is definitely worth checking out.
Technical Data
- Runtime : 130
- Release : 1983-08-26
- Genre : Drama
- Cast : Timothy Hutton as Daniel Isaacson, Mandy Patinkin as Paul Isaacson, Lindsay Crouse as Rochelle Isaacson, Ed Asner as Jacob Ascher, Ellen Barkin as Phyllis Isaacson
- Crew : Peter C. Frank as Editor, Burtt Harris as Producer, Sidney Lumet as Director, Sidney Lumet as Executive Producer, Anna Hill Johnstone as Costume Design
- Popularity 4.388
- Budget : 0
- Revenue : 0
- Company : Paramount, World Film Services
- Summary : The fictionalized story of Daniel, the son of Paul and Rochelle Isaacson, who were executed as Soviet spies in the 1950s. As a graduate student in New York in the 1960s, Daniel is involved in the antiwar protest movement and contrasts his experiences to the memory of his parents and his belief that they were wrongfully convicted.
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