Biopics of revered political underdogs can only tell the tale. Modest beginnings, protagonist shows mettle, rise to power, complications from adversaries, big climax, end coda. Diego Luna‘s Chavez (due next April) is the first feature drama about migrant labor leader Cesar Chavez. Produced by Luna and Gael Garcia Bernal and Mr. Mudd’s John Malkovich, Lianne Halfon and Russell Smith with a script by Keir Pearson (Hotel Rwanda). Participant will distribute. Chavez costars Michael Pena, America Ferrera, Rosario Dawson, Malkovich, Yancey Arias, etc. Why did Chavez die at age 56? Biography.com says that Chavez’s hunger strikes (one having lasted 36 days) may have “contributed” to his death on 4.23.93, in San Luis, Arizona.
