In memory of Mexican cinema: the most famous films of Chabelo and Cantinflas

Mexico has been a hotbed of great artists who have left their mark on culture and entertainment around the world. Among them are two legends of Mexican cinema who captivated audiences of their time and continue to be references to this day, although both are dead: Chabelo and Cantinflas, who in their best years were able to star in several films who are referents inside and outside their country.

Both actors have left an important legacy in the Mexican film industry and their films are a testament to their talent and charisma. The filmography of both of them separately is extensive, however there is also a selective collection of the most famous films of Chabelo and Cantinflas that you cannot miss and should not be missed if we talk about cinema in Mexico.

With the recent passing of an actor, host and comedian Xavier Lopez, Chabelosome of the most famous productions he has been able to perform with some of the legends of the Mexican cinemaamong them, the most important include performances by Mario Moreno, Cantinflas. In memory of two greats of television and cinema of our country:

“The Extra” (1962)

This comedy directed by Miguel M. Delgado tells the story of an extra (played by Cantinflas) who dreams of becoming a star, but finds himself entangled in a series of entanglements with Chabelo and other characters from the world of cinema. He’s a classic comedy of Cantinflas with the participation of Chabelo. In addition, it represents one of the most iconic films of both Mexicans.

• It may interest you to read: 5 most famous films of Chabelo, icon of Mexican cinema
• The 5 most famous films of Chabelo, icon of Mexican cinema

“The Age of Violence” (1964)

“The Age of Violence” is a 1964 Mexican film directed by Luis Alcoriza, which addresses social issues such as juvenile delinquency and violence in Mexican society. The film integrates the participation of Chabelo and Cantinflas, two of the most recognized actors of the time, who play key characters in the plot.

In the film, Cantinflas brings to life “El Mago”, a juvenile delinquent who commits robberies and other crimes. For his part, Chabelo plays “El Marro”, a young man who works in a gas station and who finds himself involved in dangerous situations due to his friendship with “El Mago”.

“The Little Father” (1964)

Although Chabelo does not have a leading role in this film, he appears in a short scene alongside Cantinflas, who plays a village priest who is faced with the problems of his community and his own crisis of faith.

In the story, Cantinflas plays a young priest who comes to a city to take the place of the old priest. However, his unconventional style and unorthodox methods for solving citizens’ problems give him more of a headache. Chabelo, for his part, plays a young man who befriends the priest and helps him in his work.

“The Professor” (1971)

In this film directed by Miguel M. Delgado, Cantinflas plays a teacher who struggles to improve the living conditions and education of his students, including Chabelo, who plays a minor role in the plot.

In the storyline, Cantinflas plays “Chano”, an elementary school teacher who is kicked out of his job for political reasons. After several failed attempts to find a new job, he decides to go into law on his own and use his skills to help students in a school in a poor neighborhood. Chabelo, meanwhile, plays one of the students at the school.

“El profe” is distinguished by its intelligent humor and social criticism, which still resonates today. Cantinflas’ performance is impeccable and his chemistry with Chabelo on screen is evident. The film features memorable moments, such as the famous scene where Cantinflas explains to students the differences between Mexican politics and democracy.

Each of these films are an example of the chemistry and talent of Chabelo and Cantinflas on the big screen. Though their styles were different, they managed to complement each other and create memorable moments for Mexican cinema. His legacy lives on in popular culture and in the hearts of fans who still enjoy his films today.