The Top 10 Antonio Banderas Movies
From his early work in Spanish cinema with Pedro Almodóvar to his success as a Hollywood leading man, Antonio Banderas is one of the world’s most prolific actors. We look back at his Top 10 movies today that he turns 64
The Top 10 Antonio Banderas Movies
Antonio Banderas, born José Antonio Domínguez Bandera, was born on August 10, 1960, in Málaga, Spain. He grew up in a working-class family; his father, José Domínguez, was a police officer, and his mother, Ana Bandera, was a schoolteacher. Banderas initially aspired to become a professional soccer player, but a broken foot at the age of 14 ended that dream. Instead, he turned to acting, enrolling in the School of Dramatic Art in Málaga and later moving to Madrid to pursue a career in theater.
Banderas began his acting career in Spain in the early 1980s, becoming a member of the prestigious National Theatre of Spain. His early work in Spanish cinema caught the attention of acclaimed director Pedro Almodóvar, with whom Banderas would form a fruitful collaboration. Banderas first appeared in Almodóvar’s film “Labyrinth of Passion” (1982), but it was their later films, including “Matador” (1986), “Law of Desire” (1987), and “Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown” (1988), that brought him wider recognition in Spain and established him as one of the country’s most promising young actors.
Banderas’ international breakthrough came in 1992 when he starred in “The Mambo Kings”, his first English-language film. Although he did not speak English at the time, he learned his lines phonetically, impressing audiences and critics alike with his natural charisma and screen presence. This role paved the way for a successful Hollywood career.
In 1993, Banderas gained further attention for his role in “Philadelphia”, where he played the partner of Tom Hanks’ character. The film was a critical and commercial success, and Banderas’ performance was praised for its sensitivity and depth. He followed this with a series of high-profile roles in films such as “Interview with the Vampire” (1994), “Desperado” (1995), and “Evita” (1996), where he starred opposite Madonna as the narrator, Che.
One of Banderas’ most iconic roles came in 1998 when he played the masked vigilante in “The Mask of Zorro”, opposite Catherine Zeta-Jones. The film was a box-office hit and solidified Banderas as a leading man in Hollywood. He reprised the role in the sequel, “The Legend of Zorro” (2005).
In addition to his work in action and drama films, Banderas showcased his versatility by lending his voice to the character of Puss in Boots in the Shrek film series, beginning with “Shrek 2” (2004). The character became so popular that Banderas starred in a spin-off film, “Puss in Boots” (2011), and its sequel, “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish” (2022).
In recent years, Banderas has continued to work in both Hollywood and Spanish cinema, earning widespread acclaim for his role in Pedro Almodóvar’s “Pain and Glory” (2019). His portrayal of a film director reflecting on his life and career earned him the Best Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival and an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.
Antonio Banderas has been married twice. His first marriage was to Spanish actress Ana Leza in 1987, but they divorced in 1996. Shortly after, he married American actress Melanie Griffith, whom he met while filming “Two Much” (1995). The couple had a daughter, Stella Banderas, born in 1996. Banderas and Griffith were one of Hollywood’s most high-profile couples, but they divorced amicably in 2015 after nearly 20 years of marriage.
In addition to his acting career, Banderas has explored other creative outlets, including directing and producing films. He made his directorial debut with “Crazy in Alabama” (1999), starring Griffith, and has since directed other projects.
Banderas is also known for his philanthropic efforts and was honored with the Goya Award for Best Actor for his contributions to Spanish cinema. Despite his international success, he has remained connected to his roots, frequently returning to Spain and actively participating in cultural events in his hometown of Málaga.
From his early work in Spanish cinema with Pedro Almodóvar to his success as a Hollywood leading man, Antonio Banderas’ career spans over four decades, marked by his versatility and charisma, and is contributions to both Spanish and international cinema have made him one of the most beloved and respected actors of his generation.
Today that he turns 64 we look back at his Top 10 movies.
10 – “Assassins”, 1995
9 – “Matador”, 1986
8 – “Evita”, 1996
7 – “Mujeres Al Borde de Un Ataque de Nervios”, 1988
6 – “The Legend of Zorro”, 2005
5 – “Interview with the Vampire”, 1994
4 – “Philadelphia”, 1993
3 – “¡Átame!”, 1990
2 – “Desperado”, 1995
1 – “La Ley Del Deseo”, 1987
Watch more movies related videos
Images and photographs can be from different ranges of sources such as Pinterest, Tumblr etc. except when/where noted. If you are the copyright holder and would like them removed or credited, please get in touch.
