Denis Villeneuve, an acclaimed Oscar-nominated director known for his films such as Sicario and Dune, recently shared his thoughts on some of the greatest war films during a visit to the Criterion Closet. Among his top picks, he highlighted “Che,” a film featuring Benicio del Toro, which Villeneuve considers to be “by far one of the best movies about war, about what it is to be a leader of men.”
During his time at the Criterion Closet, Villeneuve selected a variety of influential films that have inspired him throughout his career. His recommendations included works from renowned directors like Krzysztof Kieślowski’s Three Colours trilogy, Lars von Trier’s Europa, Akira Kurosawa’s The Seven Samurai, and films by Federico Fellini and Henri-Georges Clouzot such as Satyricon and The Wages of Fear. He also expressed an appreciation for documentaries, singling out Le Mystère Picasso as a standout.
Benicio del Toro’s performance in “Che” not only exemplifies his talent but also resonates deeply with themes of leadership and the complexities of conflict, making it a significant piece in the war film genre. Villeneuve’s endorsement of “Che” brings renewed attention to the film and its exploration of historical events, showcasing how powerful cinema can be in interpreting and reflecting on our past.
Overall, this highlights the continued impact and relevance of historically rich narratives in film, encouraging audiences to engage with these stories and the lessons they impart.