Antonio Banderas’ Best Roles

Antonio Banderas has built an impressive and varied career over several decades, becoming one of the most recognizable Spanish actors in Hollywood. He first gained international attention through his collaborations with director Pedro Almodóvar, where he showcased a raw and passionate acting style that would become his signature. His transition to American cinema saw him take on a wide array of roles, proving his versatility and charisma to a global audience. From action heroes to animated cats, Banderas has consistently delivered memorable performances.

His ability to move between genres is a testament to his talent and dedication. Whether he is wielding a sword, voicing a beloved character, or delving into complex dramatic portrayals, Banderas brings a unique energy to the screen. His filmography reflects a journey of an actor who is unafraid to take risks and explore different facets of his craft. This has allowed him to build a lasting legacy and a body of work that continues to entertain and resonate with people all over the world.

‘The Mask of Zorro’ (1998)

In this swashbuckling adventure, Antonio Banderas plays Alejandro Murrieta, a thief who is trained to become the new Zorro. He inherits the mantle from the original Zorro, Don Diego de la Vega, to seek revenge on the corrupt governor who wronged them both. The role required intense physical training in sword fighting and stunts, which Banderas largely performed himself. The film successfully revitalized the classic character for a new generation.

The character’s journey is one of transformation from a troubled man seeking personal vengeance to a hero fighting for the people of California. Banderas brought a perfect mix of charm, humor, and action to the role, creating a charismatic and beloved hero. He later reprised the role in the sequel, ‘The Legend of Zorro’, further cementing his status as the iconic swordsman.

The ‘Shrek’ (2004–)

Antonio Banderas provides the voice for the charming and feisty Puss in Boots, who first appeared in ‘Shrek 2’. The character is a smooth-talking, sword-fighting cat with a Spanish accent who quickly became a fan favorite. Initially hired to take out Shrek, he soon becomes one of his loyal friends and allies. Banderas’s voice work gave the character a distinct personality that was both comedic and heroic.

The popularity of Puss in Boots led to his own spin-off movie and a sequel, as well as a television series. Banderas’s portrayal is so iconic that it’s hard to imagine anyone else in the role. He infused the animated cat with a blend of bravado and vulnerability, making him one of the most memorable characters in the entire franchise.

‘Pain and Glory’ (2019)

In this deeply personal film from director Pedro Almodóvar, Antonio Banderas plays Salvador Mallo, an aging film director reflecting on his life and career. The character is semi-autobiographical, drawing heavily from Almodóvar’s own experiences, which added a layer of depth to Banderas’s performance. He portrays a man dealing with physical ailments, creative stagnation, and memories of his past loves and losses.

Banderas delivered a subtle and emotionally resonant performance that was widely praised by critics. His portrayal earned him numerous accolades, including the Best Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival and an Academy Award nomination. The role required him to convey a wide range of emotions, often with minimal dialogue, showcasing his maturity as an actor.

‘Desperado’ (1995)

Antonio Banderas took on the role of El Mariachi in the second installment of Robert Rodriguez’s Mexico Trilogy. He plays a former musician who now carries a guitar case full of guns, seeking revenge on the drug lord who killed his lover. This action-packed film solidified Banderas’s status as a leading man in Hollywood and became one of his signature roles.

His performance is both intense and stylish, blending high-octane action with a cool, stoic demeanor. The character is a man of few words, driven by a desire for vengeance, and Banderas perfectly captured his quiet rage and deadly skills. The film’s success led to a sequel, ‘Once Upon a Time in Mexico’, where he reprised his role as the legendary gunslinger.

‘Philadelphia’ (1993)

In this groundbreaking drama, Antonio Banderas plays Miguel Álvarez, the loving partner of a lawyer who is fired from his firm after they discover he has AIDS. Although a supporting role, his character is crucial to the film’s emotional core. He provides unwavering support and love to his partner during his legal battle and declining health.

The role was significant for its positive and humane portrayal of a gay relationship at a time when it was rarely seen in mainstream cinema. Banderas brought warmth and sensitivity to the character, showcasing a different side of his acting range. His performance added a powerful layer of personal drama to the film’s important social message.

‘Evita’ (1996)

Antonio Banderas starred as Che, the cynical narrator who guides the audience through the life of Eva Perón in this musical adaptation. The character serves as a critical voice, questioning Perón’s motives and actions throughout her rise to power. Banderas performed all of his own singing, demonstrating his vocal talents to a wide audience for the first time.

His performance was a key element of the film, providing a grounded perspective amidst the grand musical numbers. He held his own opposite a major pop star, bringing a theatrical flair and a powerful presence to the screen. The role allowed him to showcase his versatility as a performer, proving he was more than just an action star.

‘Spy Kids’ (2001)

In this family-friendly adventure, Antonio Banderas plays Gregorio Cortez, a loving father and husband who is secretly a retired spy. When he and his wife are captured, it’s up to their two young children to rescue them and save the world. Banderas brought a comedic and warm touch to the role of a super-spy turned suburban dad.

The film was a huge commercial success and launched a popular franchise. Banderas’s portrayal of a capable yet slightly clumsy father was relatable and funny, making him a hit with both kids and parents. He reprised the role in three sequels, becoming a familiar face in family entertainment.

‘The Skin I Live In’ (2011)

Reuniting with director Pedro Almodóvar, Antonio Banderas delivered a chilling performance as Dr. Robert Ledgard. He plays a brilliant plastic surgeon who is developing a new type of synthetic skin, testing it on a mysterious woman he holds captive in his home. The role is a departure from his more heroic characters, exploring themes of obsession and revenge.

Banderas portrays the character with a cold, calculating intensity that is both unsettling and captivating. It’s a complex and dark role that required him to delve into the mind of a man pushed to extreme lengths by grief. The performance was critically acclaimed and showed his willingness to take on challenging and morally ambiguous characters.

‘Tie Me Up! Tie Me Down!’ (1989)

In one of his early collaborations with Pedro Almodóvar, Antonio Banderas plays Ricky, a psychiatric patient who kidnaps a porn actress. His goal is to make her fall in love with him so they can start a family together. The film was controversial upon its release but has since become a cult classic.

Banderas gives a bold and unconventional performance as the deeply troubled but strangely sympathetic character. He fully committed to the role’s complexities, balancing the character’s disturbing actions with a sense of innocence and desperation. This film was instrumental in introducing his raw talent and fearless acting style to an international audience.

‘Interview with the Vampire’ (1994)

Antonio Banderas played the ancient and powerful vampire Armand in this popular gothic horror film. As the leader of a coven of vampires in Paris, his character is enigmatic and alluring. He becomes a significant figure in the immortal life of the protagonist, Louis de Pointe du Lac.

With his long dark hair and commanding presence, Banderas created a memorable and mesmerizing vampire. He portrayed Armand with an air of wisdom and world-weariness that befitted a creature who had lived for centuries. The role allowed him to stand out in an ensemble cast of major Hollywood stars.

‘The 33’ (2015)

This film tells the true story of the 2010 Chilean mining disaster where 33 miners were trapped underground for 69 days. Antonio Banderas plays Mario Sepúlveda, who becomes the group’s leader and public face during the ordeal. The role required him to portray the immense physical and emotional strain of the situation.

Banderas delivered a powerful and inspiring performance as a man who fights to keep hope alive in a desperate situation. He captured the resilience and spirit of the real-life miners, bringing authenticity and heart to the story. The film serves as a tribute to their incredible story of survival.

‘The Mambo Kings’ (1992)

In his first English-speaking role, Antonio Banderas plays Nestor Castillo, one of two Cuban musician brothers who move to New York City in the 1950s. They dream of hitting it big during the mambo craze. The film follows their journey through love, loss, and the pursuit of musical stardom.

Despite having to learn his lines phonetically, Banderas gave a passionate and heartfelt performance. He convincingly portrayed the sensitive and romantic musician, earning praise for his acting and musical abilities. This breakout role was his successful introduction to American audiences and set the stage for his future Hollywood career.

‘Assassins’ (1995)

In this action thriller, Antonio Banderas plays Miguel Bain, a young and ambitious hitman who challenges an aging master assassin. His character is ruthless, impulsive, and eager to prove he is the best in the business. The film pits the two killers against each other in a deadly game of cat and mouse.

Banderas brought a fiery and energetic presence to the role of the antagonist. He portrayed Bain with a wild and unpredictable edge that made him a formidable and entertaining foil. His performance added a dynamic layer to the film, creating a memorable rivalry between the two main characters.

‘Take the Lead’ (2006)

Antonio Banderas stars as Pierre Dulaine, a real-life ballroom dancer and instructor who volunteers to teach dance to a group of troubled high school students in detention. The film is based on the true story of how he used dance to inspire and transform the lives of these inner-city kids.

Banderas brought elegance and passion to his portrayal of the dedicated teacher. He trained extensively in ballroom dancing for the role, and his commitment is evident in the film’s dance sequences. He effectively conveyed the character’s belief in the power of art to bring about positive change.

‘The Expendables 3’ (2014)

Antonio Banderas joined the star-studded cast of this action franchise as Galgo, a fast-talking and highly energetic former Spanish Armed Forces soldier. His character is desperate to join the team and showcases his impressive combat skills and acrobatic agility. He provided much of the film’s comic relief.

Banderas stole many scenes with his humorous and manic performance. Galgo’s relentless enthusiasm and chatterbox nature were a fun contrast to the more stoic members of the team. The role allowed him to have fun and show off his comedic timing in a major action blockbuster.

Let us know which Antonio Banderas role is your favorite in the comments below.