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 is a strong and engaging actress with her ability to move across genres with ease, from action-packed thrillers to historical dramas.
We’re taking a look at some of Monica Bellucci’s most famous roles that have enthralled audiences around the world, as she celebrates her 60th birthday. Bellucci has established herself as a true movie star thanks to her stunning beauty, compelling charisma, and versatile acting abilities.
10. Dracula
Fresh from her modeling days, Monica Bellucci has 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 on screen for a short period of time, his presence is undeniable. Even in this small role, Bellucci’s striking beauty and screen presence point to the prominence she would later achieve as an actress.
9. Apartment
Bellucci began to gain wider recognition with Gilles Mimouni’s film The Apartment. Bellucci plays a young woman named Lisa who rents an apartment in Paris with Max (played by Vincent Cassel), a struggling writer. Their lives become entwined through a passionate and tumultuous attraction. Her sensual but vulnerable portrayal earned her a Cesar Award nomination for Most Promising Actress and launched her career on the international stage.
8. Malena
Giuseppe Tornatore’s Malena is a powerful and visually stunning film about wartime loss and resilience. Bellucci plays Malena Scordia, an attractive woman whose beauty provokes both attraction and persecution in a small Sicilian village during World War II. The film explores themes of desire, loneliness and survival, with Bellucci’s performance adding depth and emotion. Her portrayal in Malena cemented her status as an icon of European cinema.
7. Brotherhood of the Wolf
Brotherhood of the Wolf by Christophe Gans is a mystical historical fantasy set in 18th century France. Bellucci plays Silvia, a mysterious woman linked to a series of brutal murders of a mythical beast. His mysterious and captivating performance adds to the film’s atmosphere of mystery and intrigue. The film’s rich visuals, along with its exploration of folklore and mythology, showcased Bellucci’s versatility and his ability to excel across genres.
6. Asterix and Obelix: Mission Cleopatra
In the French comedy Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra, Bellucci plays the iconic Egyptian queen Cleopatra. The film follows the queen as she hires the Gaulish warriors Asterix and Obelix to build a grand palace in record time. Bellucci’s comedic timing and playful performance bring a light-hearted charm to the role, demonstrating his ability to seamlessly transition from dramatic roles to more humorous, family-friendly roles.
5. Irreversible
Gaspar Noé’s Irreversible is a highly provocative film, infamous for its graphic violence and quest for revenge. Bellucci plays the protagonist Alex, who suffers a brutal trauma in the story’s traumatic central event. The film is extremely difficult to watch due to its disturbing content, but Bellucci gives an extraordinary performance, portraying vulnerability and emotional distress with complete intensity. Irreversible is not for the faint of heart, but it exemplifies Bellucci’s willingness to take on challenging roles that push artistic boundaries.
4. The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions
The sci-fi epics from the Wachowskis, The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions, radically expanded the world established in the first film. Bellucci plays Persephone, an exiled figure within the Matrix who plays a key role in Neo’s journey. Bellucci shines in this beautiful and mysterious role, adding depth and perspective to the complex plot. Her presence fills the film with a seductive and mysterious energy, cementing Persephone’s place in pop culture and enhancing the film’s complex narrative.
3. Passion of Christ
Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ describes the last hours of the life of Jesus Christ. Bellucci plays Mary Magdalene, a devoted follower of Jesus. Her performance is restrained yet deeply affecting, portraying the pain and love of a woman witnessing the suffering of her Messiah. Bellucci’s portrayal of Mary Magdalene is a powerful representation of steadfast faith and devotion, drawing attention to the film’s emotional weight.
2. Don’t lie to me
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 who are battling their insecurities and fears in a long-term relationship. Bellucci carries his character with both humor and sensitivity, and demonstrates his ability to handle comedic roles while maintaining clear chemistry with his co-star.
1. Ghost
In Spectre, part of the James Bond franchise starring Daniel Craig, Bellucci plays Lucia Sciarra, a beautiful and mysterious widow associated with the sinister organization Spectre. His character is both charming and dangerous, which adds a layer of intrigue to the film’s mysterious plot. Bellucci’s presence elevates the film, proving that she remains a star capable of holding her own with the biggest names in the industry.
Also read: Happy Birthday Naomi Watts: Revisiting the actress’s 10 greatest roles as she turns 56
