Preview: South of the Border (2010)

Synopsis:

Oliver Stone takes his camera into South America to interview the presidents of the various countries on that continent and attempts to expose American audiences to a side they rarely see.

• Poster: B

Review:

The imperial claw of the eagle at the top of frame symbolizing American oppression, but also designed to look like the United States and the Latin American portion of the North American continent. It's a rather strong symbol, but it gives the poster a little too much biad, which is likely to drive away several could-be attendees.

• Trailer: C

Review:

While the idea isn't such a bad one, Stone takes a page from Michael Moore's playbook and figures prominently in the documentary and what's shown makes it almost feel like propoganda. While I don't disagree with Stone's reason for wanting to try to expose George W. Bush's influence and rhetoric regarding South America, the execution suggests something significantly biased.

Oscar Prospects:

The Academy is very likely to shy away from the controversy that's likely to brew over this documentary. And with several other strong politics-tinged docs out there, they should have no problem finding an alternative.

Release Date:

• June 24, 2010

Full Review Synopsis:

I have not seen this film.

-Wesley Lovell (June 27, 2010) Original