BY ALEJANDRA BORBOLLA

Do you know who this is? This year is the 31st anniversary of Cantinflas’ death, a Mexican icon who I am sadly aware not many foreigners know about. 

In the archives of Mexican cinema, one name shines bright like an inspiration of laughter and joy: Cantinflas. Born Mario Fortino Alfonso Moreno Reyes on August 12, 1911, in Mexico City, he passed away on April 20, 1993. Cantinflas would become an enduring symbol of Mexican humor, a cultural icon whose impact transcended borders and generations.

Cantinflas’ journey to stardom was as remarkable as it was unlikely. Born into humble beginnings, he improved his craft as a young performer in the streets of Mexico City, entertaining passersby with his quick wit and comedic timing. It was during these formative years that he developed the persona that would define his career: Cantinflas, the lovable “pelado”- a poor but resourceful urban character who used wit and charm to navigate through the challenges of life in Mexico City with a penchant for mischief and charm.

His breakthrough came in the 1930s when he began performing in Mexican theaters and cabarets, captivating audiences with his unique brand of comedy. Cantinflas’ humor was characterized by rapid-fire dialogue, clever wordplay, and biting social commentary, earning him the adoration of fans and the admiration of critics.

But it was on the silver screen where Cantinflas truly cemented his legacy. In the 1940s and 1950s, he starred in a string of wildly successful films, becoming the undisputed “king of Mexican cinema”. Movies like “Ni Sangre, Ni Arena” (Neither Blood Nor Sand) and “El Padrecito” (The Little Priest) showcased Cantinflas’ comedic genius and solidified his status as a national treasure.

Yet, it was his role in the 1956 Hollywood production “Around the World in 80 Days” that catapulted Cantinflas to international fame. Portraying the endearing valet Passepartout, he won the hearts of audiences worldwide and earned a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor. His performance in the film remains a testament to his versatility and talent as an actor.

Beyond his contributions to cinema, Cantinflas was also a tireless philanthropist and humanitarian. He used his fame and fortune to support numerous charitable causes, championing education, healthcare, and social justice initiatives throughout Mexico and beyond. His commitment to giving back to his community endeared him to the hearts of millions and solidified his legacy as more than just an entertainer but as a force for good in the world.

Today, Cantinflas’ influence continues to resonate across Latin America and beyond. His films are cherished classics, timeless treasures that continue to delight audiences of all ages. His legacy as Mexico’s beloved comedy icon endures, a testament to the power of laughter to unite and uplift us all.

In modern-day Mexico, Cantinflas remains a beloved figure whose influence is often referenced in various sayings, memes, and cultural contexts. Here are some modern-day sayings or references about Cantinflas:

“Hablando como Cantinflas”: This expression is used to describe someone who speaks in a convoluted or confusing manner, reminiscent of Cantinflas’ fast-paced and intricate dialogue delivery in his films. “Cantinfleando” is another term, which means to talk a lot but get to no point, a bit confusing. 

“¡Ahí está el detalle!”: This iconic line from one of Cantinflas’ films is often used humorously in everyday conversation to point out a small but significant detail or complication, and also to acknowledge one’s mistake in a humble way without actually pointing it out.

“¿Qué dice, qué dice, qué dice?”: This phrase, often accompanied by playful hand gestures, references Cantinflas’ comedic style of speaking quickly and energetically, leaving listeners amused but sometimes confused.

“Está como Cantinflas en una película de Buñuel”: This saying humorously refers to a situation or conversation that is absurd or surreal, likening it to the comedic chaos often found in Cantinflas’ films directed by Luis Buñuel.

Memes and GIFs: Images and short video clips featuring Cantinflas’ iconic characters and expressions are widely shared on social media platforms, serving as humorous reactions or commentary on various topics.

“Wearing your pants like Cantinflas” refers to wearing pants way low under the hips, with a little crack showing.