Eva Longoria recently made her directorial feature film debut with "Flamin' Hot," a movie that tells the inspiring story of Richard Montañez, the Frito-Lay janitor who claims to have invented Flamin' Hot Cheetos. Longoria was drawn to this project because she wanted to create a hero who looks like her family and represent working-class families.
The film, released on Hulu and Disney+ in June, became the most-watched streaming premiere in the history of Searchlight Pictures. And it successfully connected with audiences, particularly Latino viewers, who were looking for a heartfelt story about a working-class family.
Longoria expressed her pride in this project, highlighting how she, as a woman in Hollywood, assumed she had the job, just like men do. She believes in working harder and smarter to achieve equality and plans to continue pushing boundaries and paving the way for others.
Longoria's passion for storytelling and representation has been evident throughout her career. She has directed episodes of popular TV shows like Jane the Virgin, Black-ish, and Devious Maids, and produced programs that showcase Latin stories, such as HBO Max's Gordita Chronicles.
Longoria recognized the pressure and expectations that came with directing her first movie. She knew failure wasn't an option, as it could hinder her chances of getting a second chance. In contrast, she noted how men can fail on big-budget movies and still get another opportunity.
Despite the challenges, Longoria remains determined to work towards equality in Hollywood. She is focused on issues beyond box office and viewership, including women's rights, healthcare, education, and the preservation of democracy. She believes in the power of citizen activism and considers it more impactful than being a politician.
Reflecting on her journey, Longoria appreciates her own naivety when she first entered the industry. She was eager to learn and make movies, without being burdened by doubts or limitations. That naivety became her superpower and allowed her to navigate Hollywood with confidence.
Eva Longoria's directorial debut, "Flamin' Hot," has resonated with audiences and become a streaming success. Through this film, Longoria has taken a step towards amplifying diverse voices and stories on the big screen.
