'Flamin' Hot': Separating Fact from Fiction
The biopic film "Flamin' Hot," directed by Eva Longoria, tells the inspiring story of Richard Montañez, a janitor-turned-executive at Frito-Lay who claims to have invented Flamin' Hot Cheetos. However, a 2021 investigation by the Los Angeles Times raised doubts about Montañez's claims. Despite the controversy, the filmmakers stand by their decision to tell Montañez's story. The film, marketed as a "true story," is set to release on Disney+ and Hulu. Here's a breakdown of how the Flamin' Hot Cheetos tale unfolded, what parts are backed by evidence, and Montañez's perspective on the controversy.
Richard Montañez's Background
Richard Montañez started working as a janitor at Frito-Lay's plant in Rancho Cucamonga, California, in 1976. Over the years, he climbed the corporate ladder, eventually becoming a marketing executive.
For approximately 15 years, Montañez has asserted that he came up with the concept for Flamin' Hot Cheetos in the early 1990s. He claimed to have observed that Frito-Lay lacked products targeting the Latino market.
A 2021 investigation by the Los Angeles Times challenged Montañez's claims. The article raised doubts about his involvement in the creation of Flamin' Hot Cheetos. Despite the evidence suggesting otherwise, the filmmakers proceeded with the production, focusing on Montañez's personal journey rather than the accuracy of the snack's invention.
Director Eva Longoria has emphasized that "Flamin' Hot" is about Richard Montañez's story and his perspective, rather than a comprehensive history of Flamin' Hot Cheetos. The filmmakers aim to depict Montañez's truth and the impact his journey had on his life.
The Plot
"Flamin' Hot" follows Montañez (played by Jesse Garcia) from his days as a janitor at a Frito-Lay plant to his pivotal phone call with Roger Enrico (portrayed by Tony Shalhoub), the CEO of PepsiCo, Frito-Lay's parent company. Montañez pitches his idea for a spicy corn puff, propelling him toward a career as a multicultural marketing executive at PepsiCo.
The Ambiguity
While there may be elements of Montañez's story that are true, the controversy surrounding his claims casts doubt on the accuracy of his role in inventing Flamin' Hot Cheetos. The film's promotion of Montañez's narrative as a "true story" raises questions about the distinction between fact and fiction.
Conclusion
"Flamin' Hot" tells the story of Richard Montañez's journey from janitor to executive at Frito-Lay, highlighting his claims of inventing Flamin' Hot Cheetos. However, the controversy surrounding the veracity of Montañez's involvement raises doubts about the accuracy of the narrative. While the film may provide inspiration and entertainment, it is important to approach it with a critical eye, acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding the invention of Flamin' Hot Cheetos.