The Motorcycle Diaries

In 1952, Ernesto 'Fuser' Guevara and his companion Alberto Granado set off from Buenos Aires on an ambitious journey across South America. With the goal of reaching a leper colony in Peru, their expedition is fueled by a thirst for adventure and exploration.

The pair embark on their journey aboard Granado's unreliable motorcycle, affectionately named La Poderosa, which translates to 'The Mighty One.' The motorcycle's frequent mechanical failures soon become a major obstacle, forcing them to walk considerable distances.

Continuing north, Guevara and Granado face the rugged terrain of the Andes Mountains. The challenges presented by the unforgiving landscape and the motorcycle's breakdowns put their resolve and camaraderie to the test.

Their journey leads them through the scorching Atacama Desert, where they confront extreme weather conditions. The harsh environment deepens their understanding of the contrasting lifestyles of the affluent and the impoverished that they encounter along the way.

In Chile, Guevara and Granado come across a destitute couple who have been ostracized due to their communist beliefs. This encounter profoundly affects their perspective, pushing them to reflect on their own privileges and the social injustices faced by others.

The pair visit the Chuquicamata copper mine, which serves as an eye-opener for Guevara. Witnessing the awful conditions of the workers evokes anger and indignation, intensifying his growing awareness of inequality and labor exploitation.

In the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu, Guevara reflects on the demise of a once-great indigenous civilization. This moment becomes a pivotal point in his journey, deepening his understanding of history and its impact on contemporary society.

Guevara and Granado spend three weeks serving at the San Pablo leper colony. Here, Guevara's empathy is tested as he chooses to connect with the patients by shaking their hands, disregarding health protocols that separate them from the medical staff.

As the journey nears its conclusion, Guevara delivers his first heartfelt political speech during Granado's birthday celebration. He passionately speaks about the need for unity among South Americans, highlighting the injustices faced by marginalized populations.

In a symbolic act of bravery, Guevara swims across a river to stay in a leper's hut instead of the doctors' quarters. This decision reflects his profound commitment to solidarity with the marginalized people he has met during his journey.

At an airport near the end of their journey, Granado reveals that his actual birthday is on August 8th, not April 2nd as they initially believed. This moment serves as a metaphor for the enduring bonds and truths forged during their trip.

The film culminates with the appearance of the real Alberto Granado, now aged 82, who shares photographs from their journey. He briefly touches upon the future that awaited Guevara, including his tragic assassination in Bolivia in 1967, completing the circle of their shared experiences.