I've seen several of Cantanflas' movies lately and have enjoyed them very much--and "The Illiterate One" is certainly no exception. However, I must say that in many ways this film is less funny but more story-focused than the other films I have seen. This is NOT a bad thing--it's still a sweet and enjoyable film.
When the film begins, some lawyers are sending a letter to a man to tell him he's inherited two million pesos. However, the recipient (Cantanflas) is illiterate and cannot read the letter. Instead, it spurs him to do something about this and he enrolls in school--and soon forgets all about this letter. Through the course of the film he obtains a good job, meets and falls in love with a lady, foils bank robbery and is arrested and almost sent to prison! And all during this time, you cannot help root for the guy because he's a decent and very likable person.
As I say above, this particular film seems to rely less on jokes and funny situations and more on the story and character. As a result, there is a great depth and greater pleasure from watching it. While not brilliant, it's great family entertainment...providing those who are forced to use the subtitles can read!
When the film begins, some lawyers are sending a letter to a man to tell him he's inherited two million pesos. However, the recipient (Cantanflas) is illiterate and cannot read the letter. Instead, it spurs him to do something about this and he enrolls in school--and soon forgets all about this letter. Through the course of the film he obtains a good job, meets and falls in love with a lady, foils bank robbery and is arrested and almost sent to prison! And all during this time, you cannot help root for the guy because he's a decent and very likable person.
As I say above, this particular film seems to rely less on jokes and funny situations and more on the story and character. As a result, there is a great depth and greater pleasure from watching it. While not brilliant, it's great family entertainment...providing those who are forced to use the subtitles can read!