The President with an Old Volkswagen

José Mujica, known as 'Pepe', the former President of Uruguay, who ended his term on March 1 this year, has been dubbed the world's poorest president; a leader whose lifestyle did not change upon his election in 2009. He dedicated ninety percent of his presidential income to housing for the homeless and charity, and instead of using expensive state cars, he drove two old Volkswagens. Such a president is certainly an interesting subject for a documentary film recently showcased at the Thessaloniki Documentary Festival, titled 'Pepe Mujica: Lessons from a Muddy Bed'. The filmmaker, Heidi Specogna, had previously approached Mujica when he was out of power and had just abandoned armed struggle. This time, however, the eighty-year-old Mujica sits calmly in front of her, devoid of the youthful vigor and armed struggle that characterized his past, having been shot six times and spent fourteen years in prison. He counts the days until his 'office days' are over and he can return to his 'life'. He states that this full-time job consumes all his time, leaving no opportunity for other activities. Most of the film consists of an interview conducted by the filmmaker in his backyard, where Mujica appears in comfortable clothing and sneakers, not attempting to hide anything, but rather proudly living in poverty, with a home no different from that of ordinary people. The filmmaker also accompanies him on several speeches and visits to various areas. Mujica is clearly a beloved figure, and the people of Uruguay enjoy meeting him. His words, emphasizing the rights of the people, have garnered many supporters, and his revolutionary idea about the legalization of marijuana has attracted many young people to him. The film covers his first comments on the subject on the radio to the parliamentary vote, which constitutes a significant part of the film. He believes that it is impossible to leave the 150,000 marijuana users in Uruguay's three-million population in the hands of drug traffickers: 'If something is legalized, it is easier to control.' Although Mujica is relaxed and carefree in front of the filmmaker's camera, his speeches in front of the microphone and the public sometimes seem slogan-like. Consequently, Mujica's image in the film shifts from a socialist leader to someone who has little faith in state socialism. In the interview, he easily discusses how socialist governments have turned into dictatorial regimes. In fact, wherever the film portrays Mujica as a charming and appealing character with human qualities, it is engaging and captivating; however, whenever it attempts to depict him as a politician—or perhaps a hero—it paradoxically encounters challenges. The simplicity and sincerity of this character do not quite align with grand statements and lengthy speeches, especially since the film lacks substantial raw material and is summarized in a few speeches. One of the most interesting parts of the film is his trip to Germany. The filmmaker accompanies Mujica on this official visit, and his speech in Germany is also part of the film; however, more interesting than his formal remarks are his casual conversations with the German Chancellor, where a large limousine awaits him, and Mujica humorously states that he has never ridden in such a large car, crediting it to the Germans! He explains to the German Chancellor about his old Volkswagen. The use of old footage filmed over twenty years ago showcases the consistency in Mujica's behavior and speech; a character labeled the world's poorest president, yet he does not consider himself poor. He calls himself a 'soldier of life' and a 'priest'; a priest whose 'religion is life'.