Jennifer Lopez is a multi-talented star who has defied convention by succeeding in both music and acting. From a young age, she dreamed of being a star, and began taking singing and dancing lessons at just 5 years old. Her hard work and dedication paid off, as she has sold over 80 million records worldwide, becoming one of the best-selling artists of all time. But Lopez’s acting career has also been impressive, with major big-budget movies under her belt.
While some critics have been harsh, slating her performances and earning her 10 Razzie nominations, there are also standout roles that showcase her talent as an actress. Despite the mixed reviews, Lopez’s passion and dedication to her craft have earned her a loyal fan base, and she continues to be a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. So, here are 5 of Jennifer Lopez’s best roles in film.
5. Maid in Manhattan (2002)
Maid in Manhattan, released in 2002, tells the story of Marisa Ventura (Jennifer Lopez), a dedicated and hardworking maid who falls in love with a wealthy politician, Christopher Marshall (Ralph Fiennes), after a chance encounter at the upscale hotel where she works. As their romance blossoms, Marisa’s humble background and Christopher’s high-society status create obstacles that threaten to tear them apart. Although the film received mixed reviews from critics, Maid in Manhattan has since become one of the most beloved and timeless romantic comedies of all time.
Despite its initial lukewarm reception, Maid in Manhattan cemented Jennifer Lopez‘s status as a formidable leading lady, showcasing her charm, wit, and vulnerability on screen. Moreover, the undeniable chemistry between Lopez and Ralph Fiennes added to the film’s enduring appeal, making their romance feel authentic and captivating. Over time, Maid in Manhattan has become a staple of the romantic comedy genre, with its memorable characters, witty dialogue, and swoon-worthy moments continuing to delight audiences to this day.
Watch Maid in Manhattan on Paramount+
4. Enough (2002)
Once again, Enough is a movie that was not lauded by critics but still stands out as one of Jennifer Lopez’s finest performances. Released in 2002, alongside the romantic comedy Maid in Manhattan, Jennifer Lopez starred in the dramatic thriller Enough, showcasing her versatility as an actress. In this gripping film, Lopez plays Slim, a former stripper who is forced to flee her abusive boyfriend, Mitch (Billy Campbell), with their young daughter, Gracie (Tessa Allen). As they try to start a new life, Slim must use her wits and resourcefulness to protect herself and her daughter from Mitch’s relentless pursuit. From here, she transforms herself into a fighting machine as she prepares for a final showdown with Mitch.
The movie takes a dark and intense turn as Slim’s desperation grows, leading to a series of shocking and suspenseful confrontations. Enough was a major departure from Lopez’s typical romantic comedy fare, and it demonstrated her ability to tackle complex, dramatic roles with ease. By playing Slim, a strong and determined heroine, Lopez proved that she was capable of shifting between genres and personas, solidifying her status as a talented and versatile actress.
3. Selena (1997)
Released in 1997, Selena was a biographical drama that marked a monumental point in Jennifer Lopez’s career, showcasing her ability to seamlessly blend her musical talents with her acting skills. The film tells the story of Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, the Tejano pop sensation who rose to fame in the 1990s, only to be tragically murdered at the age of 23. Lopez played the title role, bringing depth and nuance to the portrayal of Selena’s struggles and triumphs. The movie follows Selena’s journey from her humble beginnings to stardom, exploring her relationships with her family and manager, as well as her struggles with fame and identity.
Despite its critical acclaim and commercial success, Selena has somewhat fallen under the radar since its release, making it a truly underrated gem. Lopez’s performance as Selena is particularly noteworthy, as she not only sang and danced in the film but also delivered a heartfelt and authentic portrayal of the beloved singer. As a result, Selena stands as a testament to Lopez’s range as an actress and a testament to the enduring legacy of the Queen of Tejano music.
2. Hustlers (2019)
Inspired by the viral New York Magazine article, Hustlers is a critically acclaimed 2019 film that follows a group of savvy former strip club employees who take matters into their own hands. The movie tells the story of a crew of dancers who, after being exploited and mistreated by their wealthy clients, decide to turn the tables and exact revenge on their former patrons. At the center of the film is Ramona Vega, a charismatic and cunning stripper played by Jennifer Lopez, who steals the show in what many consider to be her best performance to date.
Lopez’s portrayal of Ramona is a masterclass in acting, as she brings depth, nuance, and a sense of vulnerability to the character. As a result, at the time of the film’s release, Lopez was garnering serious Oscar buzz, with many predicting a nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Although she ultimately was snubbed by the Academy, Lopez did receive a Critics Choice Award nomination and a Golden Globe nomination for her performance, a long-overdue recognition for an actress who has been consistently overlooked despite her impressive talent.
1. Out of Sight (1998)
Out of Sight, released in 1998, is an Oscar-nominated crime comedy film that has become a cult classic, up there with Quentin Tarantino‘s Jackie Brown as one of the most beloved Elmore Leonard adaptations. The movie follows the story of Jack Foley (George Clooney), a charming bank robber who falls in love with Karen Sisco (Jennifer Lopez), a beautiful and tough-as-nails federal marshal. The film is a masterclass in chemistry between its two leads, who were both rising to superstar status at the time of its release.
The on-screen romance between Foley and Sisco is tender and playful, making for a compelling love story at the heart of the movie. With their banter and witty exchanges, the chemistry between Lopez and Clooney adds heaps of enduring charm to the film, making it a must-watch for fans of both actors. As a result, Out of Sight has become a beloved classic, with its blend of crime, comedy, and romance making it a standout in the genre. Want to read about more movies like Out of Sight? Here are 5 twisted romance movies that aren’t your typical romcom.
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