Why ‘Pulling Strings’ Star Omar Chaparro is Singing a Happy Tune (Interview)

If you ever get to the chance to talk to Mexican comic juggernaut Omar Chaparro, prepare to be treated to a serenade. (If only most actors would take the time to sing in their interviews.) It makes sense since Chaparro has much to sing about these days. Thanks to his breakout role in the last year’s hit bilingual romantic comedy, “Pulling Strings,” he joined paisano Eugenio Derbez (“Instructions Not Included”) in the new wave of Latinos changing the Hollywood landscape today.

Movies that make money are never lost in the translation, which can certainly help foreign talent cross over into the American mainstream. In that respect, Chaparro is more than ready to remix his own career to allow for new challenges en el norte. Already in the can is the lead villain role in the upcoming “Superfast,” a comedy spoofing the blockbuster “Fast and Furious” series.

For now, with “Pulling Strings” now available on DVD and digital download; audiences will get another chance to enjoy his scene-stealing performance as Canicas, an indefatigable mariachi sidekick. In an enthusiastic phone interview with Chaparro earlier the month, the actor humbly made sure praise was given to co-star Jaime Camil’s sensitive performance as a lovestruck singer who falls for a U.S. Embassy worker. Chaparro was simply following what was scripted, being nothing more than the necessary ingredient to spice up a charming new take on the romantic comedy.

“I got onboard this race car with plenty of gas and new tires,” Chaparro said. “I was happy just to help pilot it through the finish line.”

Very much a force of nature, Chaparro also proved an introspective one. He is well aware that Latino artists are at another turning point as the mainstream takes notice of the success of films like “Pulling Strings” and “Instructions Not Included.” What may prove even more exciting is the cultural divide between American-born Latinos and the rest of Latin America, particularly Mexico, may finally be eradicated. Here’s more with Chaparro as he discusses “Pulling Strings,” the new Latino frontier and why comedy remains firmly in his blood in this interview for Desde Hollywood.

QUESTION: How did you view the success of “Pulling Strings?” Why is it so important for the Latino community?

OMAR CHAPARRO: I think we are witnessing a key moment, certainly in Mexican films, in terms of the quality of our film exports. That’s what Eugenio Derbez demonstrated with “Instructions Not Included” and what we did with “Pulling Strings.” I think the big studios and producers are looking at us with new eyes. They are now aware of Latinos because they are seeing dollar signs. They know that most of the people who go to the movies are Hispanics. That puts us in a very important position. We have to keep making movies at this level so they continue to notice us and for us to assert ourselves. This has opened the doors for those of us dedicated to making films in Mexico.

QUESTION: You have already benefited from the success of “Pulling Strings.” What can you tell us about your first English-language film project, “Superfast?”

CHAPARRO: It was actually before the release of “Pulling Strings” in September. I received a call to audition in August for the villain role in the movie spoof of “Fast and Furious.” I had my audition and walked away with the role. We finished shooting in November 2013. It opens later this year. I was surprised but ultimately happy. It’s a small role, but it’s entirely in English. I am pleased with this project and the prospect of a few others that have yet to be settled.

QUESTION: Are you one of those funnymen who wants to be taken serious? Do you have plans to take on more dramatic roles?

CHAPARRO: I don’t think I will ever leave comedy because it is in my blood. Obviously, I’m an actor and I love to do different things that get me out of my comfort zone. If the role were a dramatic one, it would be a fascinating challenge.

QUESTION: Being a scene-stealer takes some real skill. What’s the secret to walking away with a movie?

CHAPARRO: Oh, Jorge, don’t say that! I’m being perfectly honest. I loved what Jaime did in “Pulling Strings.” He impressed me as an actor, showing such growth. Remember, I knew him first as a friend. He made a terrific pair with Laura Ramsey. When he confesses her love for her, it really moved me. But, obviously, Canicas is the comedy relief and it was logical that I would earn a lot of the laughs because that was how the script was written.

QUESTION: Much is being made in the American press about the success of Latin-themed films. But it not just the mainstream tastes that are changing. Do you think films like “Pulling Strings” can bridge the Latino divide on both sides of the border?

CHAPARRO: I think the movie shows that the two sides can work together, that we can create stronger ties between us. Also, we need to tolerate each other more, love each more and respect each other, no? We need to move away from the barriers and prejudices. The most important thing is to remove the prejudices that some people have in the U.S. towards Mexicans. But also the prejudices we have as Mexicans towards them.

QUESTION: “Pulling Strings” is now heading into the home with the DVD and digital download format. If you were a critic, what would be your review of the film?

CHAPARRO: It is a movie to watch with your partner. It has no pretense; rather, it is a film that meets the requirements of the romantic comedy. However, I do think it could use a little more chaos and adrenaline. [Laughter] No! No! I think the movie works in such a beautiful way. Sure it’s not designed go beyond the romantic comedy genre where you know everyone will be happy in the end. That’s the rules of the genre. But it’s so well told, so well designed, so well written, you will feel otherwise. The comedy is very well done. It’s about Canicas, right? It’s about the dynamic between Jaime Camil and your humble servant! [Laughs] I have no criticism!

“Pulling Strings” is now available on DVD and digital download.

“More than just a mariachi, Alejandro has a second full time job – he’s a single dad. When Alejandro tries to secure a visa for his young daughter to visit her grandparents in the U.S. Alejandro’s request is flatly denied by a young embassy worker, Rachel (Laura Ramsey). Later that evening, Alejandro and Canicas run into Rachel while playing a gig – which turns out to be a celebration of her promotion to a post in London. Alejandro seizes the coincidental encounter as a chance to change her mind on his rejected visa, and with Canicas by his side; they whisk her into an unforgettable adventure. And, while he gets busy pulling strings for a visa, it turns out the strings of his heart are pulled too.”