Evita (1996)

Evita Poster

The hit musical based on the life of Evita Duarte, a B-movie Argentinian actress who eventually became the wife of Argentinian president and dictator Juan Perón, and the most beloved and hated woman in Argentina.

Film Introduction
The 1996 film "Evita", directed by Alan Parker, was a cinematic adaption of the 1978 musical of the same name by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. "Evita" is a biographical musical drama that discovers the life of Eva Perón, the partner of Argeninian President Juan Perón and an influential political figure until her unfortunate demise in 1952. Madonna portrayed the titular character, while Antonio Banderas played Ché, an omniscient storyteller, and Jonathan Pryce starred as Juan Perón.

Plot and Narrative Structure
Loaning from the traditional rags-to-riches story, "Evita" follows Eva Duarte's (later on Perón) life journey, from her poor childhood in a rural Argentinian town to her ascendancy as the nation's spiritual leader. The movie explores her battle, ambitions, increase to fame, and political prowess, all portrayed through a mixture of tune and dialogue. It likewise presents her life story from the perspective of Ché, a character who functions as a critic and reality-check to Eva's lavish life, signifying the voice of the Argentine individuals.

Story
The motion picture begins with the news of Evita's death rippling throughout Argentina. We are then drawn back to her early life, where we see a young and enthusiastic Eva, utilizing her love with a tango artist to escape her impoverished life. Her aspiration leads her to Buenos Aires, where she utilizes a string of relationships to rise up the show business ladder.

She eventually crosses courses with Colonel Juan Perón at a charity event, and they rapidly become a set, regardless of opposition from the military and upper class. As Perón ascends to the presidency, Eva becomes a central figure in his run, assisting him garner support from the country's working class, even as she draws criticism for her fancy and pricey lifestyle.

Historic and Political Context
Evita illustrated the socio-political environment in Argentina as Juan Perón took power, focusing on the role Eva played in his political success. Critics and critics saw her as a manipulative hypocrite who utilized her background and charms for political climb, while fans saw her as a symbol of hope and decision. Through her foundation, she supplied aid for the bad, becoming a beacon of light for Argentina's working class - the descamisados.

Crucial Reception
While "Evita" was a box office success, it had actually mixed reviews from critics. Madonna's strong efficiency made appreciation, resulting in a win at the 1997 Golden Globes for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy. Her rendition of "Don't Cry for Me Argentina" became an international success. However, some critics discovered the film's narrative disjointed, commenting that the consistent switch between singing and dialogue was confusing. Others believed that the movie didn't totally flesh out its characters, failing to look into Eva's psyche and inspirations.

Summary
In essence, "Evita" is a motion picture adjustment that fixates the controversial figure of Eva Perón. The movie effectively showcases her journey from hardship to power, highlighting her impact on Argentina's political scene and the polarized views about her. Regardless of mixed evaluations, Madonna's efficiency and the movie's musical aspects, such as the globally well-known tune "Don't Cry for Me Argentina", have etched "Evita" into the collective memory of movie lovers and musical enthusiasts.

Top Cast

  • Madonna (small)
    Madonna
    Eva Perón
  • Antonio Banderas (small)
    Antonio Banderas
    Ché
  • Jonathan Pryce (small)
    Jonathan Pryce
    Juan Perón
  • Jimmy Nail (small)
    Jimmy Nail
    Agustín Magaldi
  • Victoria Sus
    Doña Juana
  • Julian Littman
    Brother Juan
  • Olga Merediz (small)
    Olga Merediz
    Blanca
  • Laura Pallas
    Elisa
  • Julia Worsley (small)
    Julia Worsley
    Erminda
  • María Luján Hidalgo
    Young Eva
  • Servando Villamil
    Cipriano Reyes