![]() ![]() Take as proof the amusing moments when Richard daydreams about corporate suits fighting each other using street slang. Longoria and her actors lean into the cheesiness, pun intended, but not without winking at us in flights of imagination that communicate a layer of calculated mischief. Tonally, “Flamin’ Hot” plays like an heir to Chicano classics such as “Blood In Blood Out” or “My Family,” which eschewed emotional subtly, yet dignified the Mexican American experience with uplifting themes of pride and unity. A scene where Judy steps in to defend Richard from the judgment of his headstrong father, Vacho (Emilio Rivera), and another where he credits her for his success brim with earnestness. Meanwhile, a marvelous Gonzalez rides a similar wavelength of cheerful determination. May “Flamin’ Hot” serve as testament to Garcia’s range and ability to lead a cast. His disarming lack of cynicism and optimistic disposition while in Richard’s shoes compel us to wish the humble character’s grand aspirations materialize. In a standout role for an actor regularly seen in more serious parts, Garcia is an utter joy to watch. ![]() Flashbacks with Garcia’s Spanglish voice-over walk us into episodes of racial discrimination in Richard’s childhood, his father’s abuse, and his lifelong romance with wife Judy (played by Annie Gonzalez). The performance traces his youthful days involved with gangs in the 1970s to his transition to a responsible family man eager to land a position at the Frito-Lay Rancho Cucamonga plant and beyond. On screen, actor Jesse Garcia ( “Quinceañera”) plays Montañez with an unwaveringly winsome attitude.
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