The film Neruda follows Pablo Neruda, a pen name used by the Chilean politician Ricardo Eliécer Neftalí Reyes Basoalto. Neruda is forced underground when the political tide shifts, and the film follows Neruda and Oscar Peluchonneau, the young and perseverant police inspector who is assigned to capture the former. However, Neruda is not content to simply hide from the authorities (and he states that he “will not hide under a bed”); he makes appearances at public venues and leaves evidence of his movements for Peluchonneau to find. Neruda views the situation as a chance to increase fame, increasing his stature as an icon.

I found Neruda to be an interesting and complex character. His charisma and poetry speaks to many people. The word “cult of personality” comes to mind, indeed Neruda’s followers look upon him as a legend. However, he is also a flawed character. There are several scenes in which Neruda engages in…well, Neruda’s former wife and current partner both note that he is fond of women. He drinks a lot, can be short with . Yet this also contrasts with some of his other actions; for example, when he goes out walking and does not have anything for a child on the street, he hugs the child and gives the child his jacket. The complex portrayal made Neruda an interesting, though perhaps not an entirely sympathetic, character.

I did find certain parts confusing. In some scenes, characters would be in one place, and though they’re conversation was still ongoing, they were suddenly in a different setting. There were parts (though without spoiling too much), particularly at the end of the film that were confusing as well. Overall, I enjoyed the film and would recommend watching it.