Love in the Time of Cholera (film)

Love cholera

Love in the Time of Cholera is a film adaptation of the novel of the same name by Gabriel García Márquez. The film, directed by Mike Newell, was released in 2007. It stars Javier Bardem, Giovanna Mezzogiorno, and Benjamin Bratt in leading roles. The story, set in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, revolves around a long-unrequited love story between Fermina Daza and Florentino Ariza in the Caribbean coast of Colombia.

Plot

The narrative follows Florentino Ariza, who falls passionately in love with Fermina Daza at first sight. However, Fermina eventually marries a wealthy doctor, Juvenal Urbino. Florentino, heartbroken, vows to wait for her. He spends the next 50 years of his life declaring his love through letters, while simultaneously becoming a successful businessman. After Urbino's death, Florentino reiterates his love for Fermina, hoping to win her heart once again.

Cast

• Javier Bardem as Florentino Ariza
• Giovanna Mezzogiorno as Fermina Daza
• Benjamin Bratt as Dr. Juvenal Urbino
• John Leguizamo as Lorenzo Daza
• Fernanda Montenegro as Tránsito Ariza

Production

The film's production involved shooting in the historic cities of Cartagena and Santa Marta in Colombia, which helped in capturing the authentic atmosphere of the novel's setting. The adaptation from novel to screenplay was a challenge due to the book's dense narrative and time span of over 50 years. The film's music, composed by Antonio Pinto, incorporates traditional Latin American and Caribbean influences to complement the story's setting.

Reception

Love in the Time of Cholera received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the film for its faithful representation of the novel's setting and its visual appeal, while others criticized it for not fully capturing the depth and emotional intensity of García Márquez's original work. The performances of the cast, particularly Bardem's portrayal of Florentino Ariza, received commendation.

Themes

The film explores themes of unrequited love, the passage of time, and the nature of romantic obsession. It delves into how love can persist and evolve over decades, often in the face of insurmountable obstacles. The story also reflects on the social and cultural norms of the time, particularly in relation to marriage and social status.

See Also

• Gabriel García Márquez
• Magical realism
• Colombian literature