Births on January 11

Alfonso Arau, Mexican actor and director

Alfonso Arau Incháustegui, born on January 11, 1932, is a revered Mexican multidisciplinary artist, renowned for his significant contributions as a filmmaker, actor, and singer. His extensive career, spanning over four decades, has left an indelible mark on both Mexican and Hollywood cinema, showcasing his remarkable versatility and artistic depth behind and in front of the camera.

The International Breakthrough: Like Water for Chocolate

Arau achieved widespread international acclaim and a pivotal career breakthrough with the 1992 romantic drama Like Water for Chocolate (original Spanish title: Como agua para chocolate). This critically celebrated film was a faithful and visually stunning adaptation of the acclaimed novel penned by his then-wife, Laura Esquivel. The movie is a quintessential example of magic realism, a literary and artistic genre where fantastical elements are blended into an otherwise realistic setting. In this enchanting narrative, the protagonist Tita's intense emotions manifest physically through her extraordinary cooking, deeply affecting all who consume her dishes. Its unique narrative, exquisite cinematography, and profound exploration of love, tradition, and repression resonated globally, making it a box office phenomenon and one of the highest-grossing foreign-language films released in the United States at the time. This success significantly introduced Mexican storytelling and cinematic artistry to a much broader international audience.

A Versatile Career Across Borders and Genres

Prior to his global success with Like Water for Chocolate, Alfonso Arau had already established himself as a prolific and respected figure in the entertainment industry. His early work encompassed numerous Mexican productions where he honed his craft as both an actor and director, contributing significantly to the vibrant cinematic landscape of his home country. Following his international breakthrough, Arau seamlessly continued to navigate both Hollywood and Mexican projects, demonstrating his adaptability and wide artistic range.

His notable filmography includes the romantic drama A Walk in the Clouds (1995), starring Keanu Reeves and Aitana Sánchez-Gijón, which further cemented his presence in Hollywood. He also directed Picking Up the Pieces (2000), a dark comedy featuring an ensemble cast including Sharon Stone and Woody Allen. Demonstrating his versatility in television, he helmed the critically received television film remake of Orson Welles' classic, The Magnificent Ambersons (2002). Returning to profound Mexican historical narratives, he directed Zapata: El sueño del héroe (Zapata: The Dream of a Hero) in 2004, an epic biographical film about the iconic Mexican revolutionary Emiliano Zapata.

Accolades and Enduring Legacy

Alfonso Arau's significant and lasting contributions to cinema have been widely recognized and celebrated throughout his career. He is a distinguished five-time recipient of the prestigious Ariel Award, Mexico's national film award, often regarded as the Mexican equivalent of the Academy Awards. Among his notable Ariel wins is the award for Best Director for his masterful and visionary work on Like Water for Chocolate. His international recognition further includes a highly coveted nomination for a BAFTA Award, solidifying his standing as a globally respected and influential filmmaker. Arau’s unique blend of cultural authenticity with universal human themes continues to inspire and resonate, ensuring his place as a celebrated figure in both Latin American and global cinema history.

Frequently Asked Questions About Alfonso Arau

Who is Alfonso Arau Incháustegui?

Alfonso Arau Incháustegui is a distinguished Mexican filmmaker, actor, and singer, celebrated for his extensive career in both Mexican and Hollywood productions, and particularly for directing the internationally acclaimed film Like Water for Chocolate.

What is Alfonso Arau most famous for?

He is most widely known for directing the 1992 film Like Water for Chocolate (Como agua para chocolate), which was an international critical and commercial success, bringing the genre of magic realism and Mexican storytelling to a global audience.

What awards has Alfonso Arau won?

Alfonso Arau is a five-time Ariel Award winner, which is Mexico's national film award, including Best Director for Like Water for Chocolate. He has also received a nomination for a BAFTA Award, underscoring his international recognition.

Is Like Water for Chocolate based on a book?

Yes, Like Water for Chocolate is based on the highly successful and beloved novel of the same name by Laura Esquivel, who was Alfonso Arau’s wife at the time of the film's production.