Jacobo Timerman: Prisoner Without a Name, Cell Without a Number

Synopsis

"Jacobo Timerman: Prisoner Without a Name, Cell Without a Number" is a 1983 television film starring Roy Scheider that chronicles the harrowing true story of Jacobo Timerman, an Argentine journalist and editor. The film portrays Timerman's arrest and imprisonment during Argentina's brutal military dictatorship, focusing on the psychological and physical torture he endured. With a compelling narrative based on Timerman's own memoir, the movie sheds light on the oppressive regime's human rights abuses and the courageous fight for truth and justice. It offers a profound exploration of the impact of political repression on individuals and society, making it a powerful and thought-provoking watch.

Cast

• 

  Roy Scheider

  Jacobo Timerman

• 

  Liv Ullmann

  Mrs. Timerman

• 

  Terry O'Quinn

  Colonel Thomas Rhodes

• 

  Sam Robards

  Daniel Timerman

• 

  Zach Galligan

  Hector Timerman

• 

  Trini Alvarado

  Lisa Castello

Reviews

The film received a mix of reviews upon release, with critics praising Roy Scheider's intense and heartfelt performance as Jacobo Timerman. Variety highlighted Scheider's ability to bring a nuanced depth to the character, stating that his portrayal "carries the emotional weight of the film, making the story resonate deeply." However, some critics felt that the movie's pacing was uneven and that the dramatization sometimes sacrificed subtlety for impact. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 6.1/10, indicating moderate appreciation from audiences. While it may not have generated widespread acclaim or high ratings on major aggregators like Rotten Tomatoes or Metacritic, its significance lies in its historical narrative and the spotlight it casts on human rights violations. The film's message and Scheider's performance are often noted as the most compelling elements, bringing attention to Timerman's ordeal in an accessible format.