Nacho Libre: Mexican Monk with a Twist and Stretchy Pants

Nacho Libre has to be one of my all time favourite comedy films. It tells the story of a monk with a difference. He is not satisfied with mundane church life, serving the same old below-standard food to the resident orphan children. He wants for something better, better not just for himself, but for all. His increasing frustration brings his fighting spirit to the fore.

Not wanting to leave his daytime duties at the monastery, he is compelled to go undercover and take on Mexico’s biggest wrestlers at night. The wrestling scene holds the promise of winning lots of money with which he can afford to buy better food for the orphans and give them a better life. He is briefly distracted when sister Encarnacion joins the monastery as a teacher. She is the embodiment of sweetness, virtuosity and feminine charm. However, wanting to win her over only adds fuel to his wrestlers cause.

Image via Wikipedia

The film draws upon Mexican stereotypes and exaggerates them into a comical desert. Whilst humouring the characters, the constant depiction of their well-meaning intentions keeps you rooting for their victory all the way.

The ending is delightful, because it’s not corny!

This film may not be everyone’s cup of tea, you have to have a taste for the ‘off-the-wall’ type of humour to enjoy it. Knowing something about the Mexican culture also helps. I personally, loved it!