Bidens and Eva Longoria screen ‘Flamin’ Hot’ movie about the origins of the spicy Cheetos snack

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On Thursday, President Joe Biden and director Eva Longoria hosted a screening of the movie “Flamin’ Hot” on the White House lawn. The film, viewed by hundreds, tells the uplifting story of a Mexican American janitor at Frito-Lay, Richard Montañez, who convinced his superiors to add a spicy twist to the traditionally cheesy snack. The narrative is considered an inspirational tale of a man striving for his dream and defying all odds, despite some skepticism around the authenticity of Montañez’s claim.

Biden, addressing the audience, remarked that the movie invoked a sense of courage and reflected on the hardships of their ancestors in starting a new life in America. Longoria, inspired by Montañez’s story, commented on her career challenges and the stereotypes she had to fight, emphasizing that the film is a testament to inclusion and authenticity.

First Lady Jill Biden appreciated how Montañez altered the perception of companies towards Latino customers. She said, “This film isn’t just about Richard. It’s about everyone who has been overlooked or underestimated.”

The Los Angeles Times, however, has accused Montañez of falsely claiming his role in the creation of the snack, with Frito-Lay denying his involvement. Despite these allegations, a White House official defended the film’s screening, explaining that it is not a documentary but rather a means for diverse Americans to see their experiences reflected in film and acknowledged by the President.

Jesse Garcia stars as Montañez in the movie, portraying the former Frito-Lay janitor from Southern California who brought Mexican flavors to the snack industry. Both the Bidens and Longoria underscored the film’s overall message of inclusivity.

“Richard Montañez disrupted the food industry in the ‘90s by leveraging his Mexican American heritage, thus turning Flamin’ Hot Cheetos into a multibillion-dollar brand and a cultural phenomenon today,” said Longoria. “We are narrating a story that applauds the American entrepreneurial dream while not avoiding the fact that this dream isn’t accessible to everyone equally.”

The movie is unique as it marks the first time a film about Hispanic characters has been screened at the White House. Additionally, it is Longoria’s directorial debut. An active Democratic supporter, she has previously spoken at three national political conventions and has raised funds for Biden and other Democratic candidates.

The screening saw a diverse crowd, including the film’s cast, Latino community leaders, members of Congress, state legislators, and more, all enjoying tortilla chips and salsa or Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, accompanied by refreshing beverages. A mariachi band added to the festive ambiance.

President Biden has hosted other film screenings this year, moving beyond the limited 42-seat White House movie theater to the expansive East Room or the sprawling lawn. Earlier in the year, he hosted screenings for Black History Month and Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

“Flamin’ Hot” premiered on June 9, available for streaming on Hulu and Disney+.

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More about Flamin’ Hot movie screening

• The Controversial Story Behind ‘Flamin’ Hot’
• Eva Longoria’s directorial debut ‘Flamin’ Hot’
• Flamin’ Hot Movie on Hulu
• Flamin’ Hot Movie on Disney+
• President Joe Biden’s Speech at the ‘Flamin’ Hot’ Screening