He filmed Che Guevara's cult journal, "The Motorcycle Diaries, " and was hailed for his humanistic portrayal of the revolutionary's early life.

CNN: Walter Salles: Back on the road

He has directed three road movies: "The Motorcycle Diaries" (2004), "Central Station" (1998) and "Foreign Land" (1996), which he co-directed with Daniela Thomas.

CNN: Walter Salles: Back on the road

When making "The Motorcycle Diaries, " he conducted years of in-depth research into Latin America culture in the 1950s and completed Che's journey through South America's rugged landscape three times.

CNN: Walter Salles: Back on the road

You might recognize it from The Motorcycle Diaries.

NPR: Gustavo Santaolalla: A Film Composer Finds His Roots