Salma Hayek is an undeniable force in Hollywood, with a career that has spanned over three decades and showcased a vast range of talent. Originally rising to fame in Mexican telenovelas, Hayek soon made her mark in Hollywood, starting with her breakout role in Desperado (1995) alongside Antonio Banderas. Since then, she has become one of the most respected and versatile actresses of her generation.
With more than 60 films under her belt, Hayek has proven her exceptional ability to take on diverse roles across various genres, from drama to action and even animated films. She has received numerous accolades, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the prestigious Chevalier of the National Order of the Legion of Honour from France. However, with such an extensive body of work, choosing just a few standout films can be challenging. Here are three of the best Salma Hayek movies that highlight her remarkable range and impact on the film industry.
1. Frida (2002)
In 2002, Salma Hayek’s performance in Frida was nothing short of extraordinary, solidifying her place as one of Hollywood’s top actresses. Portraying the iconic Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, Hayek brought to life the artist’s complex and turbulent personal life. Her performance earned her a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Actress—making her the first Mexican actress to achieve such a distinction. Additionally, Hayek won a Golden Globe and received nominations from the Screen Actors Guild and BAFTA, further cementing the film’s critical success. The film also featured an all-star cast, including Alfred Molina as Frida’s husband Diego Rivera and performances by Ashley Judd, Antonio Banderas, Geoffrey Rush, and others.
2. Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (2022)
While Hayek first captivated audiences as the charming cat burglar, Kitty Softpaws, in the 2011 Puss in Boots spinoff, her return in Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (2022) marked a major milestone in her career. In this sequel, Hayek’s performance alongside Antonio Banderas, who returns as the iconic Puss, helped elevate the film to one of her highest-grossing projects ever. The film not only showcased breathtaking animation but also a richly layered storyline that outshined its predecessor in both critical and commercial success. Hayek’s voice work as the witty and daring Kitty Softpaws brought an extra layer of depth to this animated classic.
3. Tale of Tales (2015)
The Tale of Tales stands out as one of Hayek’s most underrated performances. In this offbeat horror-fantasy film, based on the Italian fairy tale collection Pentamerone by Giambattista Basile, Hayek plays the Queen of Longtrellis, a monarch consumed by her desperate longing for a child. Her portrayal of a ruthless and determined queen, willing to go to any lengths to bear and protect her child, is a far cry from her usual roles, showing her incredible versatility as an actress. This dark, twisted fairy tale pushed Hayek to explore new and challenging territory, making it one of her most captivating performances.
Salma Hayek’s ability to take on such diverse roles across a range of genres is what truly makes her one of Hollywood’s most respected actresses. These three films represent just a small glimpse into the brilliance of her career, with each one showcasing a different side of her extraordinary talent.
