3) Salma Hayek (Multiple Films)
Salma Hayek has a lot to be thankful for in her life, but she should be thanking Robert Rodriguez most of all for her introduction to American audiences. While I doubt many of you have seen the TV movie Roadracers, starring Salma alongside David Arquette, it was her role as Antonio Banderas’ lover in Desperado that really started getting her recognition. From there came a stint in Four Rooms, her iconic snake-charming in From Dusk Till Dawn, and another bit part in The Faculty – and the rest is sultry history.
Rodriguez saw talent in the actress beyond an obvious sex appeal, and offered Hayek some of her best roles. She fits perfectly with Banderas in Desperado, providing a fiery sidekick in the heat of battle, far beyond your typical “damsel in distress.” Fast forward to From Dusk Till Dawn, and anyone with a pulse can see why I’ll always remember Santanico Pandemonium whenever the name Hayek is mentioned – but her comfort level with Rodriguez also becomes evident by her willingness to collaborate. In no way am I saying Hayek wouldn’t have found success without Rodriguez, but I am saying that the director made an excellent decision by choosing Salma as his muse of sorts.
I mean, Santanico Pandemonium. No other words need be spoken.
