Book Review: Viva Hollywood: The Legacy of Latin and Hispanic Artists in American Film

Turner Classic Movies and Running Press have published many wonderful film books in recent years, with more to come in 2023.

One of their most recent titles, released this past fall, is VIVA HOLLYWOOD: THE LEGACY OF LATIN AND HISPANIC ARTISTS IN AMERICAN FILM by Luis I. Reyes.

I thoroughly enjoyed this beautifully designed book, and to make things even better, I unexpectedly had the opportunity to meet the author in Lone Pine last October, where we had a wonderful chat and he kindly signed my copy of his book (seen below).

It was quickly apparent from both our conversation and the book itself that Reyes has a deep knowledge of and appreciation for classic films, and that's certainly reflected in his writing.

Hopefully this review will call attention to the book for anyone who missed hearing about it at the time of publication, or perhaps it will also serve as a reminder for anyone who's been meaning to order a copy but hasn't yet done so.

Reyes covers the history of Latins and Hispanics in the movies from the beginning of the industry, through the decades of Latin silent matinee idols, the '40s Good Neighbor Policy, the turbulent '60s, and up through contemporary films.

One of the things I especially appreciated is that Reyes combines a clear-eyed look at issues and stereotypes with a sincere love of movies and a deep appreciation for what Latin and Hispanic artists have contributed to the industry.

He begins the book by briefly sketching the history of Hispanics and Latins in the United States, as well as zeroing in on Hollywood's "complicated relationship with race and ethnicity since its very beginning," noting various common ethnic stereotypes seen in movies: the "saucy spitfire," the "long-suffering mamacita," and more.

At the same time, he positively focuses on the contributions of Latins and Hispanics throughout the history of films in roles large and small. The book is a wonderful celebration, including glorious glossy photos of some of my personal favorites such as Gilbert Roland, Rita Hayworth, Ricardo Montalban, and more.

Most chapters begin with an introduction followed by a series of biographical sketches of actors. The book rather reminded me of some of the classic James Robert Parish books on my shelves such as THE MGM STOCK COMPANY; in that regard the book can either be read cover to cover, for a thorough overview of the subject matter, or dipped into a bit at a time, as a companion to enrich one's current movie viewing.

I especially enjoyed the 1940s section which covers many favorite performers including Cesar Romero, Jose Iturbi, Lina Romay, Pedro Armendariz, and Maria Montez; it was particularly fun to read more about Montez, having seen a majority of her films and read a full-length biography of her in the past couple years.

My favorite section of the book, "Present and Accounted For: Hollywood Film Classics," changes gears to look at specific films featuring Hispanic actors in roles of varying sizes, as well as behind-the-scenes talent such as the Mexican-Americans who worked on special effects for KING KONG (1933).

Some of the actors featured in this section include Margo in LOST HORIZON (1937), Chris-Pin Martin in STAGECOACH (1939), Juano Hernandez in INTRUDER IN THE DUST (1949), Katy Jurado in HIGH NOON (1952), and Pedro Gonzalez Gonzalez in RIO BRAVO (1959).

In a discussion of actor Victor Millan's work in TOUCH OF EVIL (1958), I liked that Reyes also addressed Charlton Heston's performance as a Mexican cop in the film, saying it was "strangely believable." While commenting that Heston in "brown face" might not have been ideal casting, he balances that by noting that the film's protagonist being a Mexican married to an Anglo-American woman was progressive for its day.

I really liked the way Reyes sees all sides of the picture -- literally and figuratively! -- and appreciates good acting and a movie's positives, even when these things might not match up with current sensibilities.

VIVA HOLLYWOOD is an upbeat, informative, and beautifully presented volume which is a wonderful addition to any film lover's bookshelf.

VIVA HOLLYWOOD is 278 glossy pages including end notes, bibliography, and index. It measures about 7.5 inches by 9.25 inches and weighs around 1.74 pounds. The foreword was written by Jimmy Smits.

Thanks to TCM and Running Press for providing a review copy of this book.

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