The Kabuki Star in 'Sayonara' (1957)
In an era when Hollywood frequently cast white actors in Asian roles, Montalbán’s turn as Japanese Kabuki performer Nakamura in this Marlon Brando drama is a complex standout. While the casting itself is a relic of its time, his performance is one of surprising
dedication and depth. Montalbán, a Mexican actor of Spanish descent, trained with renowned Japanese acting teacher Seki Sano to prepare for the part, lending an authenticity to his movements and delivery that went beyond mere makeup. He plays Nakamura not as a caricature, but as a sophisticated artist navigating the cultural crossroads of post-war Japan. It’s a serious, dramatic role that demonstrates his commitment as a character actor, a world away from the charming heroes and villains he was often typecast as.
The Movie Star Crooner in 'Sweet Charity' (1969)
Many fans know Montalbán’s commanding voice, but how many know he could carry a tune in a major Bob Fosse musical? In Sweet Charity, he plays Vittorio Vidal, a suave Italian film star who briefly sweeps Shirley MacLaine’s title character off her feet. The role could have been a simple romantic interest, but in Fosse's hands, it becomes a showcase. Montalbán not only oozes the charisma required of a golden-age movie idol, but he also holds his own in the stylized world of a Fosse production, complete with a lavish musical number. The performance is a fantastic reminder of his early career in MGM musicals and his Tony-nominated Broadway work, skills that were largely hidden from audiences who only knew his later dramatic work.
The Compassionate Guardian in 'Conquest of the Planet of the Apes' (1972)
The Compassionate Guardian in 'Conquest of the Planet of the Apes' (1972)
A decade before he became sci-fi’s greatest villain in The Wrath of Khan, Ricardo Montalbán played one of the genre’s most benevolent father figures. In the fourth installment of the original Planet of the Apes series, he portrays Armando, a kindhearted circus owner who raises Caesar, the intelligent ape who would one day lead a revolution. Reprising his role from Escape from the Planet of the Apes, Montalbán infuses Armando with a deep sense of warmth, love, and protective loyalty. His performance is the emotional core of the film’s first act, a bastion of humanity in a world turning cruel. It's a gentle, tragic role that stands in stark contrast to Khan, proving his incredible range within the same genre.
The Blackfoot Chief in 'Across the Wide Missouri' (1951)
Playing a Native American war chief opposite Clark Gable, Montalbán delivered a powerful performance early in his career that showcased his commanding screen presence. As Ironshirt, a Blackfoot leader wary of the encroaching fur trappers, he is a formidable and dignified figure. The role is significant not just for its place in a major Technicolor Western but also for the behind-the-scenes drama; Montalbán suffered a severe spinal injury during filming after being thrown from a horse, an injury that would cause him pain for the rest of his life. Despite this, his performance is strong and memorable, establishing him as an actor capable of holding his own against Hollywood's biggest stars.
The Kind-Hearted Priest in 'The Singing Nun' (1966)
In this cheery musical drama starring Debbie Reynolds, Montalbán plays Father Clementi, a gentle and supportive priest. The film, loosely based on a true story, follows Sister Ann (Reynolds) as her song "Dominique" becomes an unlikely international pop hit. As her confidant and biggest supporter, Montalbán’s Father Clementi is the picture of unassuming kindness. The role is entirely devoid of the exoticism or menace that defined so many of his famous parts. It’s a straightforward, warm, and deeply sympathetic character in a wholesome family film, offering a glimpse of a softer, more paternal side of the actor that is rarely discussed.
