Viva La Modern

When a political revolutionary starts adorning the T-shirts of kids too young to have even learned about him in history class, it's definitely time to make a biopic. Che Guevara's story is now being told in the best way possible--with a Hollywood budget and a documentary mentality. Che first debuted at Cannes in its full four and a half hour form but has since been split into two parts, making it easier for audiences to stay awake, er, digest the film. The first focuses on the Cuban Revolution and Che's involvement with Fidel Castro, the second on the attempted revolution and execution that have made him a legend. Directed by Steven Soderbergh and starring Benecio del Toro as Che himself, it should be equal parts action-epic and history lesson. Experience Che Part I: The Argentine at one of the five screenings going on this Friday through Sunday as part of Magnolia at the Modern (3200 Darnell St. in Fort Worth), an ongoing series featuring critically acclaimed films. Che Part II: Guerilla will conveniently screen the following weekend at the same times and place. Tickets are $8.50 or $6.50 for Modern members. Advance sales begin two hours before each show. For more information, visit themodern.org/magnolia.html.
Fri., Feb. 13, 6 & 8:30 p.m.; Sat., Feb. 14, 5 p.m.; Sun., Feb. 15, 2 & 4:30 p.m., 2009