As one of the most sought-after actresses in European cinema, Bellucci has consistently given strong performances - from her early days as a model to her breakthrough role in The Apartment. She's a strong and appealing actress thanks to her ability to cross genres with ease, from action thrillers to historical dramas.
Here are 10 of Monica Bellucci's most famous roles that have captivated audiences around the world as she celebrates her 60th birthday. Monica Bellucci has established herself as a true movie star thanks to her stunning beauty, captivating charisma and versatile acting abilities.
10. Dracula
Fresh off her modeling career, Monica Bellucci played a brief but memorable role in Francis Ford Coppola's gothic horror film Dracula. She plays one of Dracula's brides, a seductive vampire who feasts on innocent victims. Although she's only on screen briefly, her presence is undeniable. Even in this small role, Bellucci's stunning beauty and screen presence hint at the prominence she would later achieve as an actress.
9. The Apartment
It was with Gilles Mimouni's The Apartment that Bellucci began to receive wider recognition. Bellucci plays Lisa, a young woman who rents an apartment in Paris with struggling writer Max (played by Vincent Cassel). Their lives are intertwined by a passionate and tumultuous attraction. Her sensual yet vulnerable performance earns her a nomination for the César Award for Most Promising Actress and launches her career on the international stage.
8. Malena
"Giuseppe Tornatore's Malena is a powerful and visually stunning film about loss and resilience in war. Bellucci plays Malena Scordia, a captivating woman whose beauty evokes both fascination and persecution in a small Sicilian village during World War II. The film explores themes of desire, loneliness and survival, and Bellucci's performance adds depth and emotion. Her portrayal in 'Malina' confirms her status as an icon of European cinema.
7. Brotherhood of the Wolves
Christophe Gance's Brotherhood of the Wolves is a suspenseful historical fantasy set in 18th century France. Bellucci plays Sylvia, a mysterious woman linked to a series of brutal murders involving a mythical beast. Her enigmatic and compelling performance heightens the film's atmosphere of mystery and intrigue. The film's rich visuals, combined with its exploration of folklore and mythology, show Bellucci's versatility and ability to perform across genres.
6. Asterix and Obelix: Mission Cleopatra
In the French comedy Asterix and Obelix: Mission Cleopatra, Bellucci plays the iconic Egyptian queen Cleopatra. The film follows the queen who hires the Gallic warriors Asterix and Obelix to build a grand palace in record time. Bellucci's comedic timing and playful performance give the role a slight charm, showcasing her ability to seamlessly transition from dramatic roles to more humorous, family films.
5. Irreversible
"Gaspar Noé's Irreversible is a highly provocative film renowned for its graphic violence and exploration of revenge. Bellucci plays Alex, the protagonist who suffers a brutal trauma in the story's shattering central event. The film is notoriously difficult to watch due to its disturbing content, but Bellucci gives an exceptional performance, portraying vulnerability and emotional suffering with raw intensity. "Irreversible is not for the faint of heart, but it is an example of Bellucci's willingness to take on challenging roles that push artistic boundaries.
4. The Matrix.
Wachowski's sci-fi epic The Matrix: Reloaded and The Matrix: Revolutions expand on the world originally created in the first film. Bellucci plays Persephone, an outcast in The Matrix who plays a key role in Neo's journey. Bellucci thrives in this elegant and mysterious role, adding depth and perspective to the complex plot. Her presence imbues the film with a seductive and mysterious energy, cementing Persephone's place in pop culture and enhancing the film's complex narrative.
3. The Passion of the Christ
The Passion of the Christ, directed by Mel Gibson, is about the last hours of the life of Jesus Christ. Bellucci plays Mary Magdalene, a devoted follower of Jesus. Her performance is restrained but deeply affecting, portraying the pain and love of a woman who witnesses the suffering of her Messiah. Bellucci's incarnation of Mary Magdalene is a powerful portrayal of unwavering faith and devotion that calls attention to the emotional weight of the film.
2. Don't Tell Me Lies
In the Italian comedy Don't Tell Me Lies, Bellucci shares the screen with her then-husband Vincent Cassel. The story revolves around a couple struggling with their own insecurities and fears in a long-term relationship. Bellucci leads her character with humor and sensitivity, demonstrating her ability to tackle comedic roles while maintaining a palpable chemistry with her counterpart.
1. Spectrum
In Spectre, part of the James Bond franchise starring Daniel Craig, Bellucci plays Lucia Ciara, a beautiful and mysterious widow with ties to the sinister SPECTRE organization. Her character is both seductive and dangerous, adding a layer of intrigue to the film's suspenseful plot. Bellucci's presence elevates the film, proving that she remains a star capable of taking on the biggest names in the industry. | BGNES
