Roa

Synopsis

Roa, directed by Andrés Baiz and released in 2013, is a gripping historical drama that delves into the life of Juan Roa Sierra, a man entangled in one of Colombia's most notorious political assassinations. Set against the backdrop of the political turmoil in 1948, the film explores Roa's descent from an ordinary citizen into the assassin of the popular Colombian liberal leader, Jorge Eliécer Gaitán. Mauricio Puentes delivers a compelling performance as Roa, capturing the complexity of his character torn between personal struggles and societal pressures. The narrative reflects on issues of power, influence, and the profound impact of political movements on individual lives. Roa is a poignant examination of history and the human condition, immersing viewers in a critical moment that reshaped Colombian society.

Cast

• Mauricio Puentes

  Juan Roa Sierra

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  Catalina Sandino Moreno

  María

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  Santiago Rodriguez

  Gaitan

• Rebeca López

  Doña Encarnación

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  Jhon Álex Toro

• Nicolás Cancino

Reviews

Roa has received mixed reviews from critics. On IMDb, it holds a rating of 6.5/10, indicating a generally favorable but divided reception. Variety praised the film for its "meticulous attention to period detail" and the "nuanced performance" by Mauricio Puentes, calling it "a thought-provoking and compelling historical drama." The Hollywood Reporter also highlighted Puentes' performance, stating that he "masterfully portrays the tragic complexity of Juan Roa Sierra," though they noted that the film's pacing might be challenging for some viewers. However, not all reviews were positive. Some critics on Rotten Tomatoes pointed out that the film's heavy focus on historical context might alienate viewers unfamiliar with Colombian history, leading to occasional confusion. One review mentioned that "while Roa excels in its atmospheric portrayal of 1940s Bogotá, the narrative sometimes feels disjointed." Overall, Roa is appreciated for its strong performances and historical significance but received criticism for its pacing and accessibility to international audiences.