Flamin’ Hot is based on the life of Richard Montañez, who claims he came up with the idea for Flamin’ Hot Cheetos — the film asserts he did this by infusing the very spices and ingredients he grew up eating as a Mexican American (Frito-Lay denies this claim). Directed by Eva Longoria from a screenplay by Linda Yvette Chávez and Lewis Colick, Flamin’ Hot isn’t the best biopic, but it is a delightfully charming one that leans into its big heart, and relishes in certain exaggerations. Anchored by a fabulous cast, Longoria spins an inspirational tale that is full of heart and humor, and takes a couple of risks in her directorial debut that elevate Flamin’ Hot’s general appeal.
