A Glimpse Into Colombia’s Quest for Democracy

Read Time:3 Minute, 51 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Petro
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 38m
Director(s): Sean Mattison
Where To Watch: shown at the 2024 Slamdance Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: Dive headfirst into PETRO, where director Sean Mattison has crafted a documentary that's a captivating history lesson with a lifelong adventure into the heart of Colombian politics. This film is not your average political narrative Following Gustavo Petro's transformation from a fervent M-19 guerrilla to Colombia's first left-wing president. It's a colorful exploration of a man's tireless pursuit of peace and a nation's march toward democracy, all set against Colombia's dynamic and sometimes stormy backdrop.

PETRO immerses viewers in a detailed saga from the get-go, pieced together with archival footage, heartfelt interviews, and frontline campaign visuals. Early on, we're invited to witness Petro's deep-rooted commitment to peace, paving the way for his political rise. What makes this portrayal stand out is the directors' all-access pass to Petro, his circle, and even his critics, offering a rounded portrayal of a man whose past fuels his future ambitions. This intimate access lets Petro's authenticity and vision shine, ensuring viewers feel a real connection.

PETRO spins a tale of resilience and unity by breaking the mold of traditional political documentaries. By spotlighting the "Historic Pact for Colombia," the film stresses the essentiality of togetherness and concerted efforts to overcome longstanding divisions. It's a fresh take on the power of leadership grounded in social justice and peace, incredibly timely given today's often divided political climate.

The narrative also doesn't shy away from Petro's adversities, including life threats and the specter of political violence, offering a stark look at the hurdles of challenging deep-seated power structures. This sober reflection adds depth to the storytelling, emphasizing the bravery needed to champion peace against all odds. It’s so important to see the complete picture in a story like this; if we were only to see the positives, it wouldn’t have been an entire experience of this man and his path to change.

Expanding its scope, PETRO draws parallels between Colombia's political journey and universal themes of change and social justice, showcasing Petro's campaign as a beacon of hope against a backdrop of political stress. This broader perspective enriches the film, making it a significant conversation starter about achieving peace in a world hungry for transformation.

Despite its fascinating storyline and deep dive into Petro's impact on Colombia, PETRO occasionally hits snags. The pacing could sometimes tighten, and a more critical eye on Petro's policies might have offered a fuller picture of his leadership. While the film succeeds in capturing the essence of Petro's campaign and historical significance, it sometimes overlooks the chance to explore counter-narratives and criticisms, which could have provided viewers with a more nuanced understanding of Colombia's political climate.

Ultimately, PETRO stands as a beacon of hope and human resilience, artfully assembled by Mattison. It encapsulates a pivotal chapter in Colombia's history through the extraordinary journey of Gustavo Petro. While it glows as a source of inspiration, the documentary's occasional overlook of in-depth analysis serves as a reminder of the complexities and layers of understanding and instigating change—still a very worthy watch, especially if you’re interested in Columbia’s political history.

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[photo courtesy of GUAGUA PRODUCTIONS]

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