Zacarías began directing for film in 1933. Even from his early career he developed a reputation for recognizing new acting talent and founded the careers of the some of Mexico's most notable actors including Pedro Armendáriz in Rosario (1935), María Félix, Marga López, Esther Fernández, and Manuel Medel. His 1961 film Juana Gallo was entered into the 2nd Moscow International Film Festival. Zacarías directed his last film in 1986. He died at the age of 101 on April 20, 2006.