Penélope Cruz’s Career: From ‘Jamón, jamón’ to ‘Ferrari’

Penélope Cruz is a Spanish actress who has achieved worldwide acclaim for her captivating performances in both Spanish and English-language films. She began her career in her native Spain, gaining prominence through a series of memorable roles in the early 1990s. Her frequent collaborations with the celebrated director Pedro Almodóvar were instrumental in shaping her career, showcasing her immense talent and emotional range to an international audience.

Her transition to Hollywood was seamless, as she quickly proved her ability to shine in a variety of genres, from action-adventure blockbusters to romantic comedies and intense dramas. Cruz’s work has been recognized with numerous awards, including an Academy Award, making her the first Spanish actress to win the honor. She continues to be a major force in global cinema, balancing high-profile American productions with compelling roles in European films, and is regarded as one of the finest actors of her generation.

‘Jamón, Jamón’ (1992)

This Spanish comedy-drama tells a story of passion, class, and rivalry in a small town. A young woman named Silvia becomes pregnant by the son of a wealthy couple who own a local underwear factory. The young man’s mother disapproves of the relationship and hires a handsome aspiring bullfighter to seduce Silvia and break up the couple, leading to a complex and tragic love triangle.

In her feature film debut, Penélope Cruz played Silvia, the female lead. The role was a bold and provocative introduction to cinema, immediately establishing her as a charismatic and fearless screen presence. The film itself became a cult classic, and Cruz’s performance launched her career, making her an overnight star in Spain.

‘Belle époque’ (1992)

Set in 1931, ‘Belle époque’ is a Spanish comedy that follows a young army deserter who finds refuge in the country home of a free-thinking artist. The artist has four beautiful and distinct daughters who all return home for a visit. The young soldier finds himself in a romantic paradise as he becomes involved with each of the four sisters, one by one.

Cruz played Luz, the youngest and most innocent of the four sisters. Her character is sweet and naive, providing a contrast to her more worldly siblings. The film was a massive critical success, winning the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film and further raising Cruz’s profile as a rising star in Spanish cinema.

‘Per amore, solo per amore’ (1993)

This Italian drama, titled ‘Per amore, solo per amore’ in Italian, offers a modern and humanistic retelling of the biblical story of Joseph and Mary. The film follows the life of a young carpenter named Joseph who falls in love with a young woman named Mary. He must come to terms with her mysterious pregnancy and the social challenges they face as a couple.

In this film, Penélope Cruz portrayed the iconic role of Mary. Taking on such a significant historical and religious figure was an early indication of her versatility as an actress. The role required a performance of quiet grace and strength, showcasing her ability to handle serious dramatic material in an international production.

‘The Greek Labyrinth’ (1993)

‘The Greek Labyrinth’, or ‘El Laberinto griego’, is a Spanish mystery thriller based on a novel by Manuel Vázquez Montalbán. The story follows a private detective who is hired by a beautiful woman to find her missing former lover, a Greek tour guide. The investigation leads the detective into a complex and dangerous world of crime and deceit.

Cruz played Elise, a character involved in the central mystery of the film. The role placed her in the film noir genre, a departure from her earlier work in comedies and dramas. Her performance added to the suspenseful and atmospheric tone of the movie.

‘La ribelle’ (1993)

‘La Ribelle’, or ‘The Rebel’, is an Italian drama about a rebellious teenage girl who is sent to a convent-run reform school. Despite the strict environment, she continues to challenge authority and forms a complex relationship with a young man she meets. The film explores themes of youth, love, and defiance in a repressive setting.

In this film, Penélope Cruz played the lead role of Enza. Her portrayal of a tough and vulnerable young woman struggling against the system was a powerful showcase of her dramatic abilities. The role required her to carry the emotional weight of the film, further proving her talent as a leading actress.

‘Alegre ma non troppo’ (1994)

This Spanish comedy tells the story of a young French horn player who is struggling with his career and his love life. He is in a complicated relationship with a young music student, and his life becomes even more chaotic when he learns he may be the father of a child he never knew he had.

Cruz played Salomé, the fiery and passionate music student who is the protagonist’s love interest. Her performance brought energy and comedic flair to the film. The role continued to build on her reputation as one of Spain’s most charming and talented young actresses.

‘Todo es mentira’ (1994)

‘Todo es mentira’, which translates to ‘It’s All Lies’, is a Spanish comedy that explores the romantic relationships of a group of young friends in Madrid. The story focuses on the ups and downs of their love lives, highlighting the small deceptions and larger lies that people tell in their search for happiness.

In this film, Cruz played Lucía, one of the central characters in the ensemble cast. The movie is a generational portrait that humorously examines the complexities of modern relationships. Cruz’s role was part of a group of actors who represented the young, urban face of Spanish cinema at the time.

‘Entre rojas’ (1995)

‘Entre rojas’ is a Spanish drama set in a women’s prison during the final years of the Franco dictatorship in Spain. The film tells the story of a young woman who is imprisoned for her political activism. Inside the prison, she meets a diverse group of women from different backgrounds who are all fighting for survival and dignity.

Penélope Cruz played Lucía, one of the inmates in the prison. The role was a serious and dramatic one, placing her in a story about political oppression and female solidarity. Her performance contributed to the film’s powerful portrayal of a dark period in Spanish history.

‘La Celestina’ (1996)

This film is an adaptation of the famous 15th-century Spanish tragicomedy, ‘La Celestina’. The story is a tale of passionate and forbidden love between a young nobleman and a beautiful young woman from a wealthy family. To win her over, the nobleman enlists the help of a cunning and manipulative old procuress named Celestina.

Cruz portrayed Melibea, the beautiful and tragic heroine of the story. Taking on such a classic role from Spanish literature was a significant step in her career. The part required her to convey both innocence and intense passion, and her performance was a key element of this lavish period drama.

‘Brujas’ (1996)

‘Brujas’, which means ‘Witches’, is a Spanish comedy about three modern women in Madrid who are navigating their careers, relationships, and personal insecurities. The film follows them as they prepare to go on a television show, and it explores their friendship and the different ways they deal with the challenges of being a woman in a contemporary society.

In this film, Cruz played Patricia, one of the three main characters. The role allowed her to showcase her comedic timing and her ability to portray a relatable, modern woman. The film is a lighthearted look at female friendship and empowerment.

‘Not Love, Just Frenzy’ (1996)

‘Not Love, Just Frenzy’, or ‘Más que amor, frenesí’, is a Spanish comedy-drama with a large ensemble cast. The film follows the interconnected lives of a group of young people in Madrid, exploring their romantic entanglements, professional ambitions, and personal dramas. The story is a vibrant and chaotic look at youth culture in the city.

Penélope Cruz had a supporting role as Laura. Her character is part of the complex web of relationships that the film explores. The movie was a fast-paced and energetic portrait of a generation, and Cruz’s presence added to its star-studded cast.

‘Love Can Seriously Damage Your Health’ (1997)

This Spanish romantic comedy spans several decades, telling the story of the on-again, off-again relationship between a man and a woman who first meet as teenagers. Their lives repeatedly intersect at key historical moments, from the Franco era to the 1990s, but the timing is never quite right for them to be together.

Cruz played the younger version of the female protagonist, Diana. She portrayed the character in her youth, capturing her romantic idealism and her initial encounters with her lifelong love interest. The film is a charming and nostalgic look at love and missed opportunities.

‘Open Your Eyes’ (1997)

‘Open Your Eyes’, or ‘Abre los ojos’, is a Spanish psychological thriller that blurs the lines between reality and dreams. The story follows a handsome and wealthy young man whose life is turned upside down after a disfiguring car accident. He is imprisoned for a murder he can’t remember and must try to piece together his fragmented memories with the help of a psychiatrist.

Cruz played Sofia, the beautiful woman with whom the protagonist falls in love just before his accident. Her character is a central figure in his confused and unreliable memories, and she becomes the key to unlocking the film’s central mystery. This critically acclaimed film significantly raised her international profile.

‘Live Flesh’ (1997)

This drama, directed by Pedro Almodóvar, begins with a young woman giving birth on a bus in Madrid during the Franco era. Twenty years later, the baby has grown into a troubled young man who gets involved in a violent confrontation with two police officers, an incident that leaves one of them paralyzed. The film then follows the intertwined and passionate lives of the five people involved.

In her first collaboration with Almodóvar, Cruz had a small but crucial role as Isabel Plaza Caballero, the young prostitute who gives birth in the opening scene. Although her screen time was brief, her intense performance set the stage for the entire film and marked the beginning of one of the most important creative partnerships in modern cinema.

‘The Girl of Your Dreams’ (1998)

‘The Girl of Your Dreams’ (‘La niña de tus ojos’) is a Spanish comedy-drama set in the 1930s. The film follows a group of Spanish filmmakers who are invited to Nazi Germany to shoot a movie in a German studio. While there, the film’s beautiful lead actress catches the eye of the Nazi propaganda minister, Joseph Goebbels, leading to a series of dangerous and comedic situations.

Cruz starred as Macarena, the charismatic lead actress. Her performance was a triumph, capturing the character’s strength, talent, and resilience. For this role, she won the Goya Award (Spain’s equivalent of the Oscar) for Best Actress, a major milestone in her career.

‘Talk of Angels’ (1998)

Set in Spain in the 1930s, on the brink of the Spanish Civil War, this historical drama follows a young Irish woman who takes a job as a governess for a wealthy family. She falls in love with the family’s eldest son, who is married, and becomes entangled in the political and social turmoil of the time.

In this film, Cruz played Pilar, a housemaid who becomes a friend to the Irish governess. Her character represents the growing political consciousness of the working class in a country divided by conflict. The role was one of her first in an English-language production.

‘The Hi-Lo Country’ (1998)

‘The Hi-Lo Country’ is a Western drama set in post-World War II New Mexico. The story centers on the friendship between two cowboys, a charismatic but reckless man and his more level-headed best friend. Their bond is tested by their love for the same married woman and the changing world that threatens their traditional way of life.

Cruz played Josepha, the beautiful and mysterious woman who becomes the object of both cowboys’ affection. This was one of her first major roles in an American film, and she brought a captivating presence to the classic Western love triangle.

‘Don Juan’ (1998)

This film is a French-Spanish adaptation of the famous legend of Don Juan, the seductive and amoral nobleman. The story follows the infamous libertine as he travels through Spain, charming and abandoning women and challenging societal conventions, all while being pursued by those he has wronged.

In this version of the classic tale, Penélope Cruz portrayed Mathurine. Her character is one of the young women who falls victim to Don Juan’s charms. The role placed her in a lavish European period piece, adding another classic literary character to her resume.

‘All About My Mother’ (1999)

This celebrated film by Pedro Almodóvar tells the story of a single mother whose teenage son is killed in a traffic accident. Overcome with grief, she travels to Barcelona to find her son’s other parent, a transgender woman named Lola. In her search, she reconnects with a community of women, including a pregnant nun and a famous actress.

Cruz played Sister Maria Rosa Sanz, a kind and naive young nun who has become pregnant by Lola. Her character is a symbol of innocence and unconditional love. The film won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film and was a critical masterpiece that further solidified Cruz’s status as an international star and a key muse for Almodóvar.

‘The Man with Rain in His Shoes’ (1999)

This romantic comedy with a fantasy twist is about a struggling actor in London who is having a terrible day. He has just been fired, and his girlfriend has left him for another man. After a near-death experience, he is given the chance to go back in time a few weeks to try and fix his mistakes and win his girlfriend back.

In this film, Cruz played Louise, a barmaid who has a brief but meaningful encounter with the main character. Although her role was small, she brought charm and warmth to her scenes, contributing to the film’s quirky and romantic atmosphere.

‘All the Pretty Horses’ (2000)

Based on the novel by Cormac McCarthy, this Western drama is set in the 1940s. The story follows a young Texan who travels to Mexico with his best friend after his family’s ranch is sold. There, he finds work on a large hacienda and falls in love with the beautiful daughter of the wealthy landowner, a forbidden romance that leads to tragic consequences.

Cruz starred as Alejandra Villarreal, the aristocratic and intelligent young woman who captures the protagonist’s heart. The role was her first lead in a major Hollywood production, and her performance conveyed the passion and pain of a character caught between love and family duty.

‘Woman on Top’ (2000)

‘Woman on Top’ is a fantasy romantic comedy about a beautiful and talented Brazilian chef who suffers from severe motion sickness. The only way she can control it is by being in control herself, which she applies to her driving, her dancing, and her love life. After discovering her husband’s infidelity, she moves to San Francisco and becomes the star of her own cooking show.

Penélope Cruz played the lead role of Isabella Oliveira. The film was a lighthearted and colorful showcase for her comedic talents and charm. It was her first solo lead role in an American film and was designed to capitalize on her growing international appeal.

‘Blow’ (2001)

This biographical crime film tells the true story of George Jung, an American man who became a key figure in the cocaine trade in the 1970s and 1980s. The film chronicles his rise from a small-town kid to one of the biggest drug importers for the Medellín Cartel, and his eventual downfall.

Cruz delivered a fiery and memorable performance as Mirtha Jung, George’s volatile and glamorous wife. Her character is a key part of his turbulent life in the world of high-stakes drug trafficking. The role was a dramatic departure for Cruz and showcased her ability to play intense and unpredictable characters.

‘Don’t Tempt Me’ (2001)

‘Don’t Tempt Me’, or ‘Bendito infierno’, is a dark comedy with a fantasy premise. The film is about a boxer whose soul is the subject of a battle between agents from Heaven and Hell who have been sent to Earth. The agent from Hell is a seductive woman, while the agent from Heaven is a former French spy.

In this Spanish-language film, Cruz played Carmen Ramos, the boxer’s wife. Her character is caught in the middle of the supernatural conflict over her husband’s eternal fate. The movie is a stylish and witty satire that plays with religious and cinematic conventions.

‘Captain Corelli’s Mandolin’ (2001)

This romantic war drama is set on a Greek island during the Italian and German occupation of World War II. The story follows the daughter of the local doctor, who is engaged to a local fisherman. Her life is complicated when a charming and music-loving Italian captain is quartered in her home, and they begin to fall in love despite being on opposite sides of the war.

Cruz starred as Pelagia, the strong-willed Greek woman at the center of the love story. The role required her to carry a major international production, and she portrayed the character’s journey from a naive young woman to someone who has endured the hardships of war and forbidden love.

‘Vanilla Sky’ (2001)

‘Vanilla Sky’ is an American psychological thriller directed by Cameron Crowe, and it is a remake of the Spanish film ‘Open Your Eyes’. The story follows a wealthy and handsome publishing magnate in New York City who seems to have a perfect life. After a disfiguring car accident caused by a jealous ex-lover, his perception of reality begins to fall apart.

Cruz reprised her role from the original film, this time playing the character of Sofia Serrano in an English-language production. She was the only member of the original cast to be in the remake. Her character is again the romantic ideal and a central figure in the protagonist’s fractured and surreal journey.

‘Waking Up in Reno’ (2002)

This road trip comedy follows two working-class couples from Arkansas who are best friends. They decide to take their dream vacation together, a road trip to see a monster truck rally in Reno, Nevada. Along the way, secrets are revealed, including the fact that one husband is having an affair with the other’s wife, leading to a series of comedic and chaotic situations.

In this film, Cruz played Brenda, one of the two female leads. The role placed her in a broad American comedy, allowing her to work alongside a cast of well-known comedic actors. Her character is a key part of the romantic and friendly entanglements that drive the plot.

‘Fan-Fan the Tulip’ (2003)

‘Fanfan la Tulipe’ is a French swashbuckling adventure comedy set in the 18th century. The film follows a charming and adventurous young man who joins the French army to escape a forced marriage. He is tricked into enlisting by a beautiful woman who pretends to be a fortune teller and predicts he will marry the king’s daughter.

Cruz starred as Adeline la Franchise, the clever and resourceful woman who dupes the hero into joining the army. She is the daughter of a recruiting sergeant and becomes the film’s main love interest. The role was a fun and action-packed adventure that showcased her in a classic European genre.

‘Masked and Anonymous’ (2003)

This musical drama features an ensemble cast of well-known actors and is set in a fictional, chaotic America that is in the midst of a civil war. The story follows a legendary but washed-up musician, played by Bob Dylan, who is released from prison to perform in a benefit concert organized by a shady promoter.

Penélope Cruz appeared as Pagan Lace, one of the many eccentric characters in the film’s surreal and allegorical world. Her role was part of the large and impressive cast that was assembled for this unconventional and divisive film.

‘Gothika’ (2003)

‘Gothika’ is a supernatural psychological thriller about a brilliant criminal psychologist who works in a women’s penitentiary. After a car accident, she wakes up to find that she is now a patient in her own institution, accused of a brutal murder that she has no memory of committing. She soon begins to believe that she is being haunted by a vengeful ghost.

Cruz played Chloe Sava, a former patient of the main character who is now a fellow inmate. Her character had claimed to be a victim of supernatural assaults, but no one believed her. She becomes a key figure in the unfolding mystery, as the protagonist starts to realize there was truth to her stories.

‘Head in the Clouds’ (2004)

This romantic war drama spans more than a decade, from the 1930s to World War II. The story follows the intertwined lives of an Irish university student, a wealthy and hedonistic French-American photographer, and a Spanish activist and intellectual. Their complex relationships are tested by love, betrayal, and the political turmoil of the Spanish Civil War and the rise of Nazism.

Cruz played Mia, the passionate Spanish model and dancer who becomes one of the three central figures in the film’s love triangle. Her character is a refugee from the Spanish Civil War, and her political convictions create conflict and drama within the group.

‘Noel’ (2004)

‘Noel’ is a Christmas-themed drama that features several interconnected storylines. The film follows a group of lonely New Yorkers on Christmas Eve whose lives intersect in unexpected ways, leading to small moments of hope and connection. The stories involve a woman caring for her mother with Alzheimer’s, a man haunted by his past, and a young couple on the verge of breaking up.

In this ensemble film, Cruz played Nina Vasquez, one half of the young couple facing a crisis in their relationship. Her character is dealing with her fiancé’s extreme jealousy, which threatens to ruin their first Christmas together.

‘Don’t Move’ (2004)

‘Don’t Move’, or ‘Non ti muovere’, is an Italian drama about a successful surgeon who reflects on a passionate and transformative affair he had years earlier. As he waits for the results of his daughter’s brain surgery after a motorcycle accident, his mind flashes back to a time when he was involved with a destitute and vulnerable woman from the slums.

Cruz delivered a raw and powerful performance as Italia, the lower-class woman with whom the surgeon has an affair. She completely transformed herself for the role, which required immense emotional and physical commitment. For her work in this Italian-language film, she won the David di Donatello Award (the Italian Oscar) for Best Actress.

‘Sahara’ (2005)

‘Sahara’ is an action-adventure film based on the best-selling novel by Clive Cussler. The story follows a master explorer and adventurer who travels to West Africa with his sidekick in search of a long-lost Civil War ironclad ship that is rumored to be hidden somewhere in the Sahara desert. Along the way, they team up with a WHO doctor who is investigating a mysterious plague.

Cruz played Dr. Eva Rojas, the intelligent and determined doctor who is trying to stop the spread of a deadly disease. She becomes an essential part of the adventure, using her scientific knowledge to help the heroes while navigating dangerous situations. The role placed her at the center of a major Hollywood blockbuster.

‘Chromophobia’ (2005)

This British drama explores the lives of a wealthy and dysfunctional London family. The film uses a large ensemble cast to examine themes of materialism, infidelity, and emotional emptiness in modern society. The story follows the various family members and their associates as their seemingly perfect lives begin to unravel.

In this ensemble piece, Cruz played Gloria, a woman who becomes involved in the complex and morally ambiguous world of the other characters. Her storyline intersects with the central family’s drama, adding another layer to the film’s critique of contemporary values.

‘Bandidas’ (2006)

‘Bandidas’ is a Western action-comedy set in late 19th-century Mexico. The film follows two women from very different backgrounds: one is an educated and sophisticated woman from a wealthy family, and the other is a tough and unrefined peasant girl. They team up to become bank robbers to fight back against a ruthless American land baron who is stealing land from the Mexican people.

Cruz co-starred as Maria Alvarez, the fiery peasant girl. She had great comedic chemistry with her co-star, Salma Hayek, and the two of them created a fun and memorable female buddy duo. The film is a lighthearted and empowering adventure that showcases Cruz’s action and comedy skills.

‘Volver’ (2006)

This Spanish comedy-drama, directed by Pedro Almodóvar, tells the story of two sisters in Madrid who are dealing with the aftermath of their parents’ death in a fire years ago. The film follows the younger sister, Raimunda, as she tries to cover up the death of her abusive husband while also dealing with the mysterious reappearance of her mother’s ghost.

Cruz delivered one of the most acclaimed performances of her career as Raimunda. The role was a powerful showcase of her dramatic and comedic talents, and she perfectly captured the resilience and strength of her character. For this performance, she won the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival and received her first Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.

‘The Good Night’ (2007)

‘The Good Night’ is a romantic comedy-drama about a former pop star who is now stuck in a mundane job writing commercial jingles. He is unhappy in his relationship and begins to have vivid dreams about a beautiful and mysterious woman. He becomes obsessed with his dream life and starts learning about lucid dreaming so he can spend more time with her.

In this film, Cruz played Anna, the real-life woman who is the inspiration for the protagonist’s dream girl. In reality, she is a model who does not live up to the perfect image he has created in his mind. The film explores the contrast between fantasy and reality in relationships.

‘Elegy’ (2008)

Based on the novel ‘The Dying Animal’ by Philip Roth, ‘Elegy’ is a drama about an aging and respected cultural critic and professor who has always avoided emotional commitment. His carefully controlled world is disrupted when he begins an intense and passionate affair with one of his former graduate students, a beautiful and confident young woman.

Cruz starred as Consuela Castillo, the intelligent and captivating student who challenges the professor’s detached view of love and life. Her performance was praised for its depth and maturity, as she portrayed a woman who is more than just an object of desire. She holds her own in a complex intellectual and emotional relationship.

‘Vicky Cristina Barcelona’ (2008)

This comedy-drama, written and directed by Woody Allen, follows two young American women who spend a summer in Barcelona. They become romantically involved with a charismatic local artist, but their relationships become much more complicated with the arrival of his beautiful but emotionally unstable ex-wife.

Cruz delivered a scene-stealing and explosive performance as Maria Elena, the artist’s fiery ex-wife. Her portrayal of the passionate and unpredictable character was a comedic and dramatic tour de force. For this role, Cruz won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, making history as the first Spanish actress to win an Oscar.

‘G-Force’ (2009)

‘G-Force’ is a family-friendly action-comedy that combines live-action and computer animation. The film is about a team of highly-trained secret agent guinea pigs who work for the U.S. government. When their special unit is about to be shut down, the team must go rogue to stop an evil billionaire from taking over the world with household appliances.

In this film, Penélope Cruz provided the voice for Juarez, a beautiful, tough, and highly skilled martial arts expert who is the sole female member of the guinea pig spy team. Her voice work brought a confident and sassy personality to the animated character.

‘Broken Embraces’ (2009)

‘Broken Embraces’, or ‘Los abrazos rotos’, is another collaboration between Cruz and director Pedro Almodóvar. This romantic thriller is told through flashbacks and follows a blind writer who reflects on the tragic love affair he had 14 years earlier with a beautiful actress. The story involves passion, jealousy, and a dark secret from the past.

Cruz starred as Magdalena, the aspiring actress who is trapped in a relationship with a wealthy older man but falls in love with the director of her first major film. The role was complex and multi-layered, and her performance was a central part of this stylish and emotionally rich film noir.

‘Nine’ (2009)

This musical romantic drama, directed by Rob Marshall, is based on the Broadway musical of the same name. The film centers on a world-famous Italian film director who is facing a midlife crisis and a creative block. As he struggles to start his next film, he reflects on his relationships with the many influential women in his life.

Cruz played Carla Albanese, the director’s passionate and vulnerable mistress. She performed a memorable and seductive musical number called “A Call from the Vatican,” which showcased her singing and dancing talents. For her performance, she received Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations for Best Supporting Actress.

‘Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides’ (2011)

This is the fourth installment in the popular fantasy-adventure film series. The story follows the eccentric Captain Jack Sparrow as he embarks on a quest to find the legendary Fountain of Youth. His journey is complicated when he is forced to team up with a mysterious woman from his past and her ruthless father, the infamous pirate Blackbeard.

Cruz played Angelica, a skilled pirate and a former love interest of Captain Jack Sparrow. She is a cunning and unpredictable character who is his equal in wit and sword fighting. The role placed her in one of the biggest blockbuster franchises in the world, showcasing her action-adventure side to a massive global audience.

‘To Rome with Love’ (2012)

This romantic comedy, written and directed by Woody Allen, is set in Rome and features four separate storylines that do not intersect. The vignettes explore themes of love, fame, and relationships, featuring a mix of American and Italian characters who are all having unique adventures in the historic city.

In one of the four stories, Cruz played Anna, a beautiful and charming prostitute who is mistaken for a young man’s fiancée by his family. She delivered a hilarious and scene-stealing performance entirely in Italian. Her segment was a classic farce that showcased her exceptional comedic timing.

‘Twice Born’ (2012)

‘Twice Born’, or ‘Venuto al mondo’, is an Italian drama that unfolds in two different time periods. The story follows an Italian professor who returns to Sarajevo with her teenage son years after the Bosnian War. The trip forces her to confront her traumatic past and the story of her son’s birth during the brutal siege of the city.

Cruz starred as Gemma, delivering an emotionally intense performance that required her to portray the character across a span of 20 years. The role was demanding, as she had to convey the profound trauma of war and the enduring pain of lost love.

‘I’m So Excited!’ (2013)

‘I’m So Excited!’, known in Spain as ‘Los amantes pasajeros’, is a campy and outrageous comedy from director Pedro Almodóvar. The film is set almost entirely on an airplane that is circling Spain because of a technical problem with its landing gear. The passengers and crew in business class, fearing for their lives, begin to confess their deepest secrets.

Cruz made a brief but memorable cameo appearance at the very beginning of the film alongside Antonio Banderas. They played a married couple of airport ground crew members whose mistake is responsible for the plane’s technical difficulties.

‘The Counselor’ (2013)

This crime thriller, directed by Ridley Scott and written by Cormac McCarthy, follows a successful and respected lawyer who decides to get involved in a one-time drug deal to make some quick money. He is warned about the dangers, but his arrogance leads him down a dark and violent path from which there is no return.

In this film, Cruz played Laura, the sweet and innocent fiancée of the main character. Her character is completely unaware of her fiancé’s criminal activities and represents the happy, normal life that he is putting at risk. She becomes a tragic victim of the brutal world he has entered.

‘Ma Ma’ (2015)

‘Ma Ma’ is a Spanish drama about a woman who is diagnosed with breast cancer. The film follows her courageous and optimistic fight against the disease, as well as her relationships with her young son and a man who has just lost his own wife and daughter in a car accident. The story is a celebration of life in the face of tragedy.

Cruz gave a powerful and moving performance as Magda, the central character. She also served as a producer on the film, demonstrating her commitment to bringing this emotional story to the screen. The role was a deeply personal one for Cruz, and she was praised for her brave and heartfelt portrayal of a woman facing her own mortality.

‘Zoolander 2’ (2016)

This comedy is the sequel to the 2001 cult classic about a dim-witted but good-natured male model. In this installment, the world’s most famous models are being assassinated, and a special agent from Interpol’s “Fashion Division” recruits the now-retired models Derek Zoolander and Hansel to go undercover and solve the case.

Cruz played Valentina Valencia, the Interpol agent and a former swimsuit model who is determined to stop the killings. She fully committed to the film’s absurd and over-the-top humor, holding her own alongside the established comedic stars of the franchise.

‘Grimsby’ (2016)

‘Grimsby’, released in the U.S. as ‘The Brothers Grimsby’, is an action-comedy about two orphan brothers who were separated as children. One brother grows up to be a top MI6 spy, while the other becomes a dim-witted but lovable football hooligan from the town of Grimsby. They are forced to reunite and go on the run to save the world from a global terror plot.

In this film, Cruz played Rhonda George, a philanthropist and the head of a charitable organization who is secretly the film’s main villain. The role allowed her to showcase her comedic side by playing an over-the-top antagonist in a raunchy and action-packed spy parody.

‘The Queen of Spain’ (2016)

‘The Queen of Spain’, or ‘La reina de España’, is the sequel to the 1998 film ‘The Girl of Your Dreams’. The story is set in the 1950s and follows the famous Spanish actress Macarena Granada, who returns to Spain from Hollywood to star in a big-budget American epic about Queen Isabella of Spain. Her return reunites her with the cast and crew from her time in Germany years earlier.

Cruz reprised her Goya-winning role as Macarena Granada. The film is a loving tribute to the golden age of cinema and a comedy about the chaos of filmmaking. Cruz once again shined as the glamorous and strong-willed movie star at the center of the story.

‘Loving Pablo’ (2017)

This biographical crime drama chronicles the rise and fall of the notorious Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar. The story is told from the perspective of his most famous mistress, the glamorous television journalist Virginia Vallejo, and it depicts their volatile and dangerous love affair during the height of his power.

Cruz starred as Virginia Vallejo, delivering a compelling and transformative performance. She captured the journalist’s ambition, glamour, and eventual fear as she became entangled in the violent world of the Medellín Cartel. She starred opposite her real-life husband, Javier Bardem, who played Escobar.

‘Murder on the Orient Express’ (2017)

This mystery film, directed by Kenneth Branagh, is based on the classic novel by Agatha Christie. The story follows the world-famous detective Hercule Poirot, who is a passenger on the luxurious Orient Express train. When one of the passengers is murdered, he must use his brilliant deductive skills to identify the killer from among the other passengers before they strike again.

In this star-studded ensemble cast, Cruz played Pilar Estravados, a quiet and devout missionary. Her character is one of the many suspects with a secret past who is trapped on the train with the detective. The role added another classic literary adaptation to her diverse filmography.

‘Everybody Knows’ (2018)

‘Everybody Knows’ (‘Todos lo saben’) is a Spanish-language psychological thriller written and directed by the Iranian filmmaker Asghar Farhadi. The story follows a woman who travels from Buenos Aires with her children to her hometown in Spain for her sister’s wedding. The happy reunion turns into a crisis when her teenage daughter is kidnapped, and dark family secrets begin to emerge.

Cruz played Laura, the mother whose daughter is abducted. She delivered a raw and intense performance, portraying a woman’s desperation and fear as she deals with the kidnapping and the long-buried tensions within her family. She once again starred alongside her husband, Javier Bardem.

‘Pain and Glory’ (2019)

This semi-autobiographical drama from director Pedro Almodóvar follows an aging and ailing film director who is in a state of creative crisis. The film drifts between his present-day life and a series of vivid flashbacks to his childhood in the 1960s, particularly his relationship with his mother, as he reflects on the choices he has made in his life and career.

In the flashback sequences, Cruz played Jacinta, the director’s young and resilient mother. She gave a warm and powerful performance that embodied the strength and love of the maternal figure who shaped the protagonist’s life. For this role, she received another Goya Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.

‘Wasp Network’ (2019)

‘Wasp Network’ is a political thriller based on the true story of a group of Cuban intelligence officers in the 1990s. The film follows these men who leave their families behind to go undercover in Miami, infiltrating anti-Castro exile groups in an effort to stop terrorist attacks against their country.

Cruz played Olga Gonzalez, the wife of one of the main Cuban spies. Her character is left behind in Havana, believing her husband is a traitor who has deserted her. Her storyline provides the emotional anchor to the complex political espionage plot, showing the personal sacrifices made by the spies and their families.

‘Parallel Mothers’ (2021)

In her latest collaboration with Pedro Almodóvar, ‘Parallel Mothers’ (‘Madres paralelas’) tells the story of two single women who meet in a hospital room just before they are about to give birth. One is a middle-aged photographer who is excited about her pregnancy, and the other is a scared teenager. They form a close bond that complicates and transforms their lives in unexpected ways.

Cruz delivered a tour-de-force performance as Janis, the photographer. The role was complex and emotionally demanding, exploring themes of motherhood, identity, and historical trauma in Spain. Her powerful work earned her the Best Actress award at the Venice Film Festival and her fourth Academy Award nomination.

‘Official Competition’ (2021)

‘Official Competition’ (‘Competencia oficial’) is a sharp and hilarious satire of the film industry. The story follows a wealthy pharmaceutical tycoon who, in an effort to build a lasting legacy, decides to finance a prestigious art-house film. He hires a celebrated but eccentric female director and two famous actors with huge egos and completely different acting styles to star in it.

Cruz starred as Lola Cuevas, the brilliant and unconventional director. She gave a masterful comedic performance, perfectly satirizing the pretentious and often absurd world of auteur filmmaking. Her character puts the two male leads through a series of increasingly bizarre acting exercises, with hilarious results.

‘The 355’ (2022)

‘The 355’ is a female-led spy action thriller. The film follows a wild card CIA agent who must team up with a group of rival international agents to recover a top-secret weapon that has fallen into mercenary hands. The women must overcome their personal and political differences to form a new faction, code-named “355,” and stop a global threat.

Cruz played Graciela Rivera, a skilled Colombian psychologist and intelligence agent who gets pulled into the dangerous mission. She is the moral and emotional center of the team, a woman who is not a field agent but must find her courage in a high-stakes world of espionage.

‘L’immensità’ (2022)

‘L’immensità’ is an Italian-language drama set in 1970s Rome. The film is a personal story that explores the relationship between a mother and her children in a family that is falling apart. The story is told from the perspective of the eldest child, who is exploring their gender identity and finds solace in fantasy and music.

Penélope Cruz played Clara, the vibrant and troubled mother who is trapped in an unhappy marriage. She delivered a deeply moving performance, capturing the character’s love for her children and her struggle for personal freedom in a restrictive society. The role included several fantasy musical numbers that showcased a different side of her talent.

‘On the Fringe’ (2022)

‘On the Fringe’ (‘En los márgenes’) is a Spanish social drama that intertwines three stories over the course of a single day. The film focuses on the struggles of working-class families in Madrid who are facing eviction from their homes due to the economic crisis. It is a powerful look at the human cost of housing insecurity.

Cruz played Azucena, a supermarket employee and mother who has 24 hours to find the money to stop her family from being evicted. She also served as a producer on the film. Her performance was raw and heartbreaking, powerfully conveying the desperation and resilience of a woman on the brink.

‘Ferrari’ (2023)

This biographical drama, directed by Michael Mann, is set in the summer of 1957. The film follows the life of the legendary Italian auto magnate Enzo Ferrari as he faces a crisis. His company is on the verge of bankruptcy, his marriage is in turmoil after the death of his son, and he decides to risk everything on one final, treacherous 1,000-mile race across Italy, the Mille Miglia.

Cruz co-starred as Laura Ferrari, Enzo’s wife and business partner. She delivered an intense and formidable performance as a woman grieving the loss of her son while also dealing with her husband’s infidelities and the immense pressures of their business. Her portrayal was praised as a powerful and complex character study.

What role do you think best defines Penélope Cruz’s international career? Let us know your opinion in the comments below.