10 Greatest Fake Pro Wrestlers In Movies
10. Nacho (Nacho Libre)
Ever so slightly inspired by a real life Catholic priest turned luchador Fray Tormenta, director Jared Hess’ sophomore effort introduces us to Ignacio and his Nacho wrestling alter ego.
Working as a cook for a Mexican monastery, Jack Black’s Ignacio finally pulls the trigger on his lucha libre dreams. Using the money to support the orphanage and afford better ingredients for his meals, Ignacio gradually rises through the lucha ranks as the film progresses.
Something of a one-joke concept, Nacho Libre relies heavily on the humorous performance of Jack Black. Releasing 2 years after Hess’ popular debut, Napoleon Dynamite, the film provides a similar style of off-beat, often juvenile humour.
Not exactly the most respectful rendition of lucha libre or its rich culture and history, Nacho Libre was a modest success with audiences at the time. In the years since, it has become something of a cult favourite as is often the case with Hess’ films. Despite predominantly being a parody, Black’s Ignacio proves to be a likeable and endearing lead. With a noble cause behind his desire to compete and a good deal of physical comedy to deal out, the unlikely champion is a good showcase of its actor’s knack for goofy humour.