Carlos

Carlos, directed by Olivier Assayas and starring Edgar Ramirez, Alexander Scheer, and Alejandro Arroyo, is a riveting biographical crime-thriller film that encapsulates the infamous political activist and alleged terrorist, Ilich Ramirez Sanchez, better known as Carlos, 'The Jackal'.

Set in the late 20th century, the movie commences by introducing the viewers to a young Ilich Ramirez Sanchez. Ramirez is depicted as an audacious, fervid advocate born in Venezuela from a well-to-do Marxist family. Intent on using his ideals to fuel significant global change, Carlos embarks on a tormented journey that's fraught with perils and inflammatory incidents.

Edgar Ramirez masterfully portrays Carlos, an intriguing character who astonishes and displaces the deceptively calm societal structure of the era. Ramirez’s skilled depiction of Carlos highlights the nuances of the revolutionary's character – his radical political stance, the ambition he possesses, and the grave implications of his audacious actions, all while essentially being an instrument for the Palestinian cause.

Carlos quickly ascends the reins of the global insurgency ranks and stretches his pursuits across various countries. A large portion of the film is dedicated to his exploits in France, presenting him as a figure that constantly eludes capture.

The story becomes even more captivating with the entrance of Johannes Weinrich and Magdalena Kopp, enacted by Alexander Scheer and Nora von Waldstätten respectively. They make up Carlos' German crew, and their exchanges offer a fascinating glimpse into the operating mechanisms of such organizations.

One cannot forget the scene stealing performances of Alejandro Arroyo, Ahmad Kaabour, and Fadi Abi Samra, who portrays his fellow comrades in arms. Their portrayals reflect the fervor of the times and the dedication to their cause.

Assayas as a director must be lauded for his ability to weave an intricate narrative through multiple countries, languages, and political climates. His attention to detail is impeccable, with the script and production design successfully representing the era's turmoil and the tumultuous geopolitical landscape. Assayas brilliantly uses the backdrop of the oil crisis, European terrorist attacks, and Berlin Wall, constructing an intriguing historical context around Carlos's personal story.

The political element is an essential part of Carlos, and the movie lays a justified emphasis on it. Throughout Carlos’s moving journey, the film delivers commentary on various socio-political factors via conversations, debates, and conflicts Carlos engages in and his fluctuating alliances with different revolutionary groups. The movie successfully establishes the balance between the personal journey of the Venezuelan and the international political upheaval, lending a distinct tone to this bio-pic.

Carlos is not just about action, politics, and frenzy, but it also conveys intra-personal emotions and dilemmas. Edgar Ramirez excellently explores Sanchez's character's hidden depths, revealing the man's vulnerabilities, his narcissistic tendencies, and his struggle between his ideology and individual needs. The movie delves into his relationships, the transgressions and betrayals, offering insight into the man behind the moniker.

Cinematographically, the movie is splendid, bringing to life the period's aesthetic and charm. The gritty, grainy texture adds to the movie's authenticity, and the meticulous production and costume design create an immersive experience for the viewers.

In conclusion, Carlos is a dynamic portrayal of a controversial figure. The movie skillfully interweaves the narrative of personal experiences with international politics, making it an engaging viewing. Brilliantly directed by Olivier Assayas and skillfully acted by Edgar Ramirez, along with outstanding performances by other cast members, Carlos is an engrossing journey into the life of a man whose choices, ideology, and actions shaped global events. While the movie may not lionize or condemn Carlos, it presents a compelling, comprehensive, and objective view of his life and his times. Carlos is an exceptional testament to narrative historical cinema for those interested in complex character studies, political drama, and intrigue-filled international affairs.