Rent Viva Zapata! (1952)

What is it about Latin America? - Viva Zapata! review by JT

Viva Zapata is a slightly romanticised account of the career of this highly influential revolutionary leader whose name is still revered by revolutionaries the world over. Written by John Steinbeck and directed by Elia Kazan at the height of the McCarthy era its political agenda is clear enough. We see three presidents and one not-quite president over a period of barely 10 years. Zapata is the last one, murdered by a resurgent military-political establishment of the sort that has plagued Latin America from Mexico to Chile ever since those countries gained their independence from Spain. The question is: why? After 200-odd years, why have the countries of Latin America never developed robust political institutions and progressed to full democracy?

Mexican Revolution - Viva Zapata! review by NO

Brando gives a moody glum portrayal of the Mexican Hero,well shot in black & white.Quinn as his brother is as usual excellent.An actors film with Brando sulkily never

Smiling.There should be more films of Mexican history as its like the War of the Roses.