Antonio Banderas and Salma Hayek were the actors in the animated children's movie Puss in Boots; The Last Wish. However, their collaboration began earlier when they both starred in films, including the Shrek spinoff film in 2011 where they portrayed Puss in Boots and Kitty Softpaws. These franchise films resonated well with audiences and shared a vibe reminiscent of two other movies they worked on together; Desperado and Once Upon a Time in Mexico both directed by Robert Rodriguez. Apart from these projects by Rodriguez and DreamWorks, they worked together in many films which will be discussed below.
Iconic Start by 'Desperado'
In Desperado, a neo-Western action film crafted by Rodriguez, Banderas and Hayek shared the spotlight. Banderas portrayed a man seeking vengeance against the drug lord who killed his love while Hayek played his interest and partner in crime during their quest to bring down the notorious Bucho. This film served as a role for Hayek earning her acclaim for her performance alongside praise for Bandera's on-screen charisma. "Desperado" marked the beginning for this duo's partnership that would go on to include more collaborative projects.
One of the scenes that really frightened the actress, from Eternals was a love scene with her co-star Antonio Banderas. What made it more distressing for her was that it was her time filming a love scene in a Hollywood movie. Remembering how nervous she was, during the shoot especially considering that the scene wasn't even part of the script Hayek shared,
Resprised Roles for 'Once Upon a time in Mexico'
Years later Banderas and Hayek reunited as a couple working together again on another project related to Desperado titled "Once Upon a Time, in Mexico.The actors returned to their roles. Elevated the action, to a level facing fresh adversaries and greater risks. Johnny Depp played a part in the movie portraying the main character and an incredibly talented villain.
Supporting Character in 'Frida'
Hayek appeared in the movie "Frida" portraying an artist from the early 1900s. Frida Kahlo, who suffered from early life injuries faced challenges due to her disabilities while also becoming a figure in the art world. Kahlo was known for her groundbreaking views. Openly identifying as bisexual. Hayek's performance in the film earned her an Academy Award nomination.
Banderas played a supporting role as David Alfaro Siqueiros, an artist associated with Kahlo and her mentor turned husband Diego Rivera. While not directly involved in the dynamics of Kahlo and Riveras relationship Banderas brought his talent to this anticipated film and received special recognition in its initial trailer.
Collaboration Continued
During the 2000s the Spy Kids franchise gained popularity and Hayek joined a star-studded cast for its final installment. Banderas portrayed the father figure throughout all three films while Hayek entered as a scientist character. Their collaboration continued with Rodriguez's Spy Kids 3 D; Game Over.
Another Hit
In Hitman's Wife's Bodyguard Ryan Reynolds, Hayek, and Samuel L. Jackson took on leading roles in this action film. Hayek portrayed Jackson's wife while Reynolds was hired to protect her from Banderas's character—an antagonist, within the movie.
The movie relied heavily on comedy elements to craft an engaging narrative packed with thrilling fight sequences and exhilarating car chases. Hitman's Wifes Bodyguard marked the collaboration between Hayek and Banderas before their reunion in The Wish, in 2022.