Che (The Criterion Collection) Blu-ray - Definitive Biopic

Our review of Che (The Criterion Collection) Blu-ray finds it essential for film lovers who want a deep, unvarnished portrait of Ernesto Che Guevara and a director-approved presentation. This edition stands out for its high-definition masters and Benicio Del Toro's Cannes-award-winning performance, which together make the film feel immediate and textured. In this review the single biggest reason to buy is the combination of Soderbergh's uncompromising two-part structure and a Blu-ray transfer supervised by the director, delivering superior picture quality and a more immersive viewing of a controversial historical figure.

Key Features

• Director-approved transfer: High-definition digital masters supervised and approved by Steven Soderbergh ensure the film appears as the director intended, preserving color and detail.
• Two-part epic structure: The Blu-ray presents both the Cuban Revolution section and the Bolivia campaign, giving viewers the full, unbroken narrative scope of Soderbergh's vision.
• Standout central performance: Benicio Del Toro's Cannes-award-winning portrayal delivers an intense, naturalistic character study that anchors the film's moral ambiguity.
• Documentary realism: Filming choices that favor handheld and naturalistic cinematography enhance the immediacy and historical feel of the drama.
• Definitive biopic value: This edition is suited to viewers seeking a rigorous, non-hagiographic film about a historical figure, with strong storytelling and production clarity.

Who It's For

This Blu-ray is for cinephiles, history-minded viewers, and fans of director-led editions who value an authentic presentation and strong acting. Scholars or viewers interested in revolutionary history will appreciate the film's refusal to simplify its subject and the care taken in the director-approved transfer.

Casual viewers who prefer a straightforward, lightly dramatized biopic or those looking for a short runtime should look elsewhere, as Soderbergh's Che is deliberately epic in length and unflinching in tone, demanding a committed viewing.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Outstanding film quality thanks to high-definition masters approved by the director.
• Benicio Del Toro's award-winning acting delivers a compelling, nuanced central performance.
• Strong cinematography and naturalistic shooting style enhance the historical immersion.

Cons

• The two-part, epic structure is long and may be challenging for viewers seeking a concise biopic.
• Its deliberate refusal to mythologize the subject can feel restrained for audiences expecting a clear heroic arc.

Specifications

Our Verdict

Che (The Criterion Collection) Blu-ray is a strong purchase for viewers who want a definitive, director-approved edition of Soderbergh's ambitious biopic, elevated by Benicio Del Toro's performance and excellent picture quality. While its length and uncompromising tone limit mass appeal, the Blu-ray offers clear value for collectors and serious film viewers who prioritize fidelity to the director's vision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this edition supervised by the director?
Yes, the Blu-ray uses high-definition digital masters supervised and approved by Steven Soderbergh.

Does Benicio Del Toro lead the film?
Yes, Benicio Del Toro stars in the film and delivers the Cannes-award-winning central performance.

Is the film a single-length movie or multiple parts?
The film is presented in two parts covering the Cuban Revolution and the Bolivia campaign for a full epic experience.