Walker
Director: Alex Cox
Actors: Ed Harris, Richard Masur, Rene Auberjonois
PlotIn the mid-19th century, American adventurer William Walker is hired by Cornelius Vanderbilt to help stabilize the government of Nicaragua for business interests. Walker, portrayed as ambitious and idealistic, sees this as an opportunity to spread his vision of democracy and manifest destiny. With a small group of mercenaries, he lands on Nicaraguan shores, where he becomes embroiled in local power struggles and corruption. Initially, his forces achieve swift victories, allowing Walker to maneuver himself into a position of influence within the country's volatile political landscape. He aligns with key figures, leveraging promises of reform and prosperity to gain their support, while planning to consolidate power and push his own radical agenda.
As tensions escalate, Walker declares himself the new president of Nicaragua. However, his arrogance and authoritarian measures begin to alienate his allies both in Nicaragua and the United States. The grand vision he promoted is undermined by his increasingly brutal tactics and controversial policies, casting a shadow over his initial goals. Walker becomes isolated, facing growing resistance and instability. A series of strategic missteps combined with the shifting international dynamics threatens to unravel everything he has built. The plot examines the ramifications of ambition unchecked by consequences as the dream of a utopian republic transforms into a cautionary tale of hubris and imperial overreach. This historical narrative offers a critical lens on interventionist politics and the complex interplay of power, idealism, and downfall.
Writers: Rudy Wurlitzer
Release Date: 04 Dec 1987
Runtime: 94 min
Rating: R
Country: United States, Mexico
Language: English, Spanish, American Sign
Home Video Reviews
Walker, a divisive and ambitious cult biopic by Alex Cox, is beautifully upgraded in HD by Criterion, revealing its bold yet flawed vision.
Read our review of Walker Blu-ray to find out more