In Hollywood, Cantinflas, the beloved Mexican comic* actor, was like a comet* — white-hot and short-lived. Although well-known in his homeland, he was not famous in the United States when he burst on the scene, co-starring with David Niven in 1956’s “Around the World in 80 Days.”

    His original name was Fortino Mario Alfonso Moreno Reyes. Born in poverty* in 1911, he returned to Mexico to continue his career there. His character, called Cantinflas and inspired* by a drunken street cleaner he saw outside a theater, first took shape on the 1930s’ tent-show circuit*. Soon Cantinflas was starring in films.

    The movie tries to present the magic of this much-loved legend. Oscar Jaenada in the title role does a great job of bringing the legend to life. Although more loose-limbed and lanky* than Reyes, Jaenada is at ease with the physical comedy of the star, which makes people think of Charlie Chaplin.

    Director Sebastian del Amo, who co-wrote the film with Edui Tijerina, has deep feelings for the man and the character. He tells the story of the self-made superstar, who never forgot his beginnings, fighting for rights of the working poor until his death in 1993.

    The film is faithful* in recording the highs and the lows of fame that at times threatened* the star’s marriage to the love of his life.

    It is in crossing the border that “Cantinflas” makes a mistake. Barely have the filmmakers touched down* in Mexico before they change to Hollywood — a constant* back and forth that becomes more and more distracting*.

    About half of the film is devoted to Michael Todd’s “Around the World” saga, following the still unproven* movie producer as he tries to get support for the project. With two stories to tell, it is not surprising that one suffers.

    You’re left with that empty feeling of a surface barely scratched*, when the legend that was Cantinflas should be told in a better way.

    (SD-Agencies)