has acquired U.S. distribution rights to “
,” the Spanish-language biopic about the iconic Mexican film actor and set an Aug. 29 release date.
The company has also acquired rights in Latin America, where it will work with partners Televisa and
to distribute the movie.
Cantinflas, best known for co-starring with David Niven in 1956’s “Around the Word in 80 Days,” appeared in more than 50 movies between 1936 and 1981. Born Mario Moreno in Mexico City as one of eight children, he was a boxer as a young man before becoming a comic actor.
Cantinflas often portrayed impoverished campesinos and was considered by many to be the Mexican Charlie Chaplin.
“Cantinflas” is directed by Sebastian Del Amo from a script by Edui Tijerina and stars Oscar Jaenada in the title role, Michael Imperioli, Ilse Salas and Luis Gerardo Mendez. Kenio Films produced the film.
“Around the World in 80 Days” won five Oscars, including best picture. Cantinflas won the Golden Globe for actor in a comedy or musical.
As part of the release of “Cantinflas,” Univision plans to air a series of digitally re-mastered Cantinflas movies.
Pantelion, a joint venture between Lionsgate and Televisa, scored a major success last year with the U.S. release of comedy “Instructions Not Included.” The comedy grossed more than $44 million domestically, making it the top-grossing Spanish language title ever released in the U.S. market.
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