Dolores del Rio was more than just an actress; she was a trailblazer, a symbol of talent and grace, and the first major Latin American female crossover star. Hailing from Mexico, del Rio’s career may have spanned only a decade, but she left an indelible mark on the cinematic world. Let’s take a look at the top 5 movies of del Rio’s career that solidified her status as the ultimate Hollywood female leading lady.
Flying Down to Rio (1933)
This delightful musical comedy saw del Rio sharing the screen with Hollywood giants Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers in their first-ever pairing. Despite their star power, del Rio received top billing, playing Belinha, an audience member who catches the eye of composer Roger Bond (Gene Raymond). The film follows the romantic and comedic exploits of the pair, showcasing del Rio’s charm and charisma.
Cheyenne Autumn (1964)
Even past the peak of her career, del Rio continued to deliver impressive performances. In this Western, she starred alongside Richard Widmark, Carroll Baker, and James Stewart, among others. Though only credited as “Spanish Woman,” del Rio’s quiet wisdom and veteran acting skills made her performance a standout, proving her talent remained undiminished.
What Price Glory (1926)
A unique blend of silent film, comedy-drama, and war, What Price Glory featured del Rio as Charmaine de la Cognac, the daughter of a local innkeeper in war-torn France. American veterans Quirt and Flagg, played by Edmund Lowe and Victor McLaglen, vie for Charmaine’s love, resulting in a captivating love triangle that’s impossible to ignore.
Bird of Paradise (1932)
In this romantic drama with a touch of adventure, del Rio played Luana, the daughter of a South Pacific island chief. After saving the life of a young man named Johnny Baker (Joel McCrea), the film explores the collision of two worlds, driven by fate and Mother Nature. Del Rio’s performance as the life-saving island dweller is both captivating and memorable.
The Loves of Carmen (1927)
Del Rio’s portrayal of the title character in this silent romantic drama, based on the novella Carmen by Prosper Mérimée, is yet another testament to her talent. The film also featured Don Alvarado, Victor McLaglen, Mathilde Comont, and other favorites of the era, making it a must-watch for fans of classic cinema.
In addition to her incredible filmography, here are ten lesser-known facts about Dolores del Rio:
10. She was nicknamed Lolita.
Though the name gained notoriety from a 1955 novel, it’s also a common nickname for Dolores in many circles.
9. Her cause of death was liver failure.
A painful and difficult way to go, liver failure is a reminder that even the most glamorous stars are still human.
8. Dolores was a petite woman.
Though not exceptionally short, del Rio was smaller than many of her contemporaries, adding to her unique charm.
7. She was the first Mexican movie star with international appeal.
Del Rio’s success helped pave the way for other Hispanic actors to gain recognition beyond their regional borders.
6. A romance with Orson Welles led to her second divorce.
Welles was captivated by del Rio, but their affair ultimately caused the end of her marriage.
5. She won the Ariel, the Mexican Academy Award, three times.
This prestigious honor is a testament to del Rio’s talent and enduring appeal.
4. In 1957, she was a judge at the Cannes Film Festival.
Being selected as a judge at Cannes is a significant honor and a testament to del Rio’s impact on the world of cinema.
3. She debunked the myth that she slept 16 hours a day to maintain her beauty.
Though she did sleep 8 to 9 hours a night, del Rio’s busy life as an actress left little time for excessive slumber.
2. Tired of being typecast, she prepared for a movie that was never made.
Del Rio’s desire to break free from native roles led her to change her look, but the film she had planned never materialized, temporarily stalling her career.
1. She never believed in diets.
Instead of dieting, del Rio practiced moderation, maintaining her health and beauty without depriving herself of the foods she loved.
Dolores del Rio was a classy, talented, and groundbreaking actress whose legacy continues to inspire and captivate audiences today.
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