Salma Hayek has cemented herself as one of Hollywood’s most talented and versatile actresses. With a career spanning over three decades, the Mexican-American actress has taken on an impressive variety of roles, from high-octane action films to emotionally charged dramas. Starting her journey in Mexican telenovelas, Hayek quickly became a household name in Mexico before transitioning to Hollywood, where she captivated audiences worldwide.

While narrowing down the best of Salma Hayek’s work can be a challenge, there are a few films that truly showcase her acting prowess and impact on the film industry. Here are three of Salma Hayek’s best movies of all time, each illustrating a different facet of her immense talent.

1. Frida (2002)

Salma Hayek’s breakout role in Frida is arguably one of her most iconic performances to date. This biographical drama about the life of famed Mexican painter Frida Kahlo allowed Hayek to shine on an international stage, earning her critical acclaim and a nomination for an Academy Award for Best Actress—making her the first Mexican actress to receive this honor.

In Frida, Hayek delivers a powerful and nuanced portrayal of the legendary artist, bringing to life Kahlo’s passion, pain, and determination. The film not only explores Kahlo’s incredible artistic achievements but also delves into her tumultuous relationship with fellow artist Diego Rivera, played by Alfred Molina. Hayek’s transformation into the role of Kahlo was mesmerizing, and her dedication to the character made the film a standout in her career.

The film’s cast, including notable performances from Antonio Banderas, Geoffrey Rush, and Ashley Judd, only added to the prestige of the production. Beyond her acting, Hayek also took on a producer role, proving her commitment to telling this important story. For many, Frida remains the defining film of Salma Hayek’s career.

2. Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (2022)

While Hayek is best known for her live-action roles, her voice work in animated films is equally impressive. In Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, Hayek reprised her role as Kitty Softpaws, a fierce and skilled cat burglar with a mysterious charm. The film, a spin-off from the popular Shrek franchise, saw Hayek teaming up once again with Antonio Banderas, who voices the titular character, Puss in Boots.

In this sequel, Hayek’s character plays a pivotal role, bringing a fresh energy to the storyline. The animation is stunning, and the film’s humor, combined with its heartfelt moments, makes it one of Hayek’s most entertaining projects. Moreover, Puss in Boots: The Last Wish became one of her highest-grossing films, showcasing her ability to captivate audiences across different genres and formats.

This role exemplifies Hayek’s versatility as an actress, moving seamlessly between drama, action, and family-friendly animated films. Her work in Puss in Boots demonstrated her voice acting talent, making it a fun and memorable part of her career.

3. Tale of Tales (2015)

One of Salma Hayek’s most underrated performances comes from the visually stunning and fantastical film Tale of Tales. Based on a collection of fairytales by Italian poet Giambattista Basile, the film intertwines three dark and mysterious tales, one of which features Hayek in the role of the Queen of Longtrellis.

In this offbeat horror-fantasy, Hayek portrays a monarch desperate for a child. Her determination leads her down a dangerous and obsessive path, as she will stop at nothing to bear an heir. The intensity and desperation she brings to the role are haunting, showcasing her range as an actress and her ability to tackle unique, unconventional characters.

The Tale of The Enchanted Doe, one of the film’s storylines, offers a powerful contrast to Hayek’s more familiar roles. Her portrayal of the ruthless and tragic Queen made for one of her most chilling performances, earning her praise from critics for stepping out of her comfort zone. This film, though less mainstream, highlights Hayek’s willingness to take risks and embrace roles that challenge her as an artist.

Salma Hayek’s Journey Through Hollywood

Beyond these three incredible performances, Salma Hayek’s career is filled with numerous memorable roles. She has starred in blockbusters like Once Upon a Time in Mexico (2003), where she again paired with Antonio Banderas, and House of Gucci (2021), where she worked alongside other Hollywood heavyweights like Lady Gaga and Adam Driver. Additionally, Hayek showed off her comedic chops in Grown Ups (2010), proving she can navigate both drama and humor with ease.

Recently, Hayek made headlines with her appearance in the hit Netflix series Black Mirror (2023), where she played a version of herself in the satirical episode “Joan Is Awful.” Her performance in the show was a delightful surprise, adding to her long list of impressive screen credits.

Conclusion: A Multifaceted Star

Salma Hayek’s legacy in Hollywood is undeniable. From her dramatic transformation in Frida to her animated adventures in Puss in Boots, she has demonstrated time and again that she is a force to be reckoned with. Whether taking on a historical figure, voicing a beloved animated character, or diving into dark fantasy, Hayek’s performances are always captivating.

With more than 60 films under her belt, Salma Hayek continues to be a trailblazer in the industry. Her ability to navigate diverse genres while staying true to her roots as a Mexican actress has solidified her place among Hollywood’s elite. As she continues to take on new challenges, there’s no doubt that Salma Hayek’s star will keep shining bright for years to come.