Salma Hayek is a Mexican-American actress who has captivated audiences with her sensational performances. With a career spanning over three decades, she has delivered remarkable performances in various genres. From intense dramas to hilarious comedies, Hayek has shown her versatility as an actress. In this article, we will be exploring the 5 best movies of Salma Hayek that have truly showcased her talent and established her as a force to be reckoned with in the film industry.

Frida (2002)

One of the most iconic roles of Salma Hayek's career came in the biopic "Frida." Hayek not only portrayed the legendary painter Frida Kahlo but also produced the film. Her dedication to bringing this story to life shines through every scene. The movie beautifully captures the turbulent life and creative genius of Frida Kahlo, showcasing both her artistic brilliance and personal struggles. Hayek's portrayal of Kahlo earned her numerous accolades, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. It was a breakthrough role for Hayek and established her as a serious actress in Hollywood.

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Desperado (1995)

In "Desperado," directed by Robert Rodriguez, Salma Hayek delivered a standout performance as Carolina, a bookstore owner caught up in a dangerous world of crime. This action-packed thriller propelled Hayek into the spotlight and showcased her ability to hold her own alongside renowned actor Antonio Banderas. The film provided Hayek with the platform to display her charisma and beauty, captivating audiences with her fiery performance and establishing her as a rising star in Hollywood.

From Dusk Till Dawn (1996)

Hayek teamed up again with director Robert Rodriguez for the cult classic "From Dusk Till Dawn." This supernatural crime horror film tells the story of two criminal brothers who kidnap a family and take them to a Mexican bar infested with vampires. Hayek plays the role of Santanico Pandemonium, a seductive vampire stripper. Her unforgettable performance in the provocative and visually captivating dance scene became an iconic moment in cinema history. Hayek's ability to seamlessly switch between sensuality and fierce intensity solidified her status as a versatile actress.

Traffic (2000)

In Steven Soderbergh's critically acclaimed film "Traffic," Hayek takes on the role of Rosario, a heroin-addicted mother struggling to overcome her addiction and provide a better life for her son. The film explores the complexities of the drug trade and its impact on individuals and society. Hayek's portrayal of Rosario is heartfelt and powerful, showcasing her ability to delve deep into complex characters. Her raw and emotional performance earned praise from critics and demonstrated her commitment to bringing authenticity to her roles.

Once Upon a Time in Mexico (2003)

In this action-packed sequel to "Desperado," Hayek reprised her role as Carolina. Directed by Robert Rodriguez, the film follows the mythical journey of an anti-hero played by Antonio Banderas. Hayek's character once again finds herself entangled in dangerous situations, displaying courage and determination. Her chemistry with Banderas shines through, making their interactions captivating to watch. Hayek's performance rounds out this thrilling trilogy, solidifying her status as a leading lady in action films.