Jacobo Timerman: Prisoner Without a Name, Cell Without a Number (1983)

Jacobo Timerman: Prisoner Without a Name, Cell Without a Number Poster

An Argentinian newspaper publisher is imprisoned by his government for dissent.

Film Overview
"Jacobo Timerman: Prisoner Without a Name, Cell Without a Number" is a 1983 TV motion picture based on the life of Argentine reporter and human rights activist Jacobo Timerman. The film, directed by Linda Yellen, stars Roy Scheider as Timerman, representing his experiences throughout Argentina's Dirty War, a period marked by political discontent, imprisonment, and torture of suspected subversives. The film adapts Timerman's 1981 memoir of the exact same name and sheds light on his dreadful experiences under the Argentine military dictatorship.

Plot
The movie traces Timerman's life, concentrating on his time as the editor of the paper La Opinion, where he honestly criticized the government's fascism and corruption. His papers particularly attracted the ire of the authorities, causing his unlawful kidnapping in 1977 by the Argentine military junta. He is separated from his family, implicated of treason, and subjected to harsh physical and psychological abuse.

Emphasis on Torture and Politics
"Jacobo Timerman: Prisoner Without a Name, Cell Without a Number" does not avoid illustrating the brutalities experienced by Timerman and his fellow political detainees. Scenes portraying torture, humiliation, and fear show the film's intent to expose the unflinching nature of oppressive programs. The motion picture also highlights Timerman's unyielding spirit and ethical guts, as he never ever succumbs to his torturers or compromises his beliefs.

Additionally, the movie takes a look at Argentina's political environment at the time. Through Timerman's experiences and conversations with his captors and fellow inmates, it assesses Argentina's dark past, political oppression, and the effects of such programs on people and societies.

Human Rights Theme
The film prominently deals with the style of human rights. It critiques not only the Argentine government but likewise the worldwide neighborhood for staying strangely silent in the face of such flagrant human rights infractions. Timerman's character highlights the significance of raising one's voice versus oppression and standing company in the face of injustice.

Performances and Reception
Roy Scheider's portrayal of Timerman conveys the journalist's nerve, strength, and commitment to reality. His performance brings depth to the character, making audiences resonate with Timerman's plight. The supporting cast, consisting of Liv Ullmann, who plays Timerman's wife Risha, provides admirable efficiencies.

The film received an usually favorable response, with audiences and critics valuing its raw, practical portrayal of Timerman's experience and his unyielding defend fact and justice. It was regarded as a chilling suggestion of the risks of federal government corruption and political tyranny.

Conclusion
"Jacobo Timerman: Prisoner Without a Name, Cell Without a Number" is a powerful narrative that reveals a troubling yet considerable chapter in Argentina's history. It honors the story of a guy who declined to surrender to injustice and ended up being a substantial voice in the battle for human rights. This movie stays a significant piece of movie theater that educates about political atrocities, reminding us of the significance of freedom and the power of resilience. It stands as a searing critique of overbearing federal governments, emphasizing the requirement for watchfulness and resistance in the face of tyranny.

Top Cast

  • Roy Scheider (small)
    Roy Scheider
    Jacobo Timerman
  • Liv Ullmann (small)
    Liv Ullmann
    Mrs. Timerman
  • Terry O'Quinn (small)
    Terry O'Quinn
    Colonel Thomas Rhodes
  • Sam Robards (small)
    Sam Robards
    Daniel Timerman
  • Zach Galligan (small)
    Zach Galligan
    Hector Timerman
  • Trini Alvarado (small)
    Trini Alvarado
    Lisa Castello
  • Paul Collins (small)
    Paul Collins
  • Kaiulani Lee (small)
    Kaiulani Lee
  • Christopher Murney (small)
    Christopher Murney
    Colonel Rossi
  • Michael Pearlman
    Javier Timerman
  • Joanna Merlin (small)
    Joanna Merlin