Hollywood has long been the home of talented movie stars. Many A-list actresses have shocked audiences with daring scenes or bold roles in films often labeled “adult”—18+ movies. However, the important thing to note is that they have transformed these roles into stepping stones to cement their names and talents.
1. Angelina Jolie
Angelina Jolie is one of the first names that come to mind when discussing Hollywood actresses who wield both beauty and talent. Before becoming a symbol of action with her role in Tomb Raider (2001), Jolie made a significant impression with her performance in Gia (1998), a biopic about supermodel Gia Carangi.
The film does not shy away from depicting intimate scenes to portray the tragic life of the character. This role not only earned Jolie a Golden Globe but also helped her break free from the shadows of being “Jon Voight’s daughter” to become a true star. Since then, she has continued to redefine herself through diverse roles, from action to drama, establishing herself as one of Hollywood’s iconic figures.
People magazine has honored Angelina Jolie multiple times in its list of “The Most Beautiful People in the World,” most notably in 2006 when she topped this list. Her captivating beauty and strong personality have made her a global beauty icon.
2. Nicole Kidman
Nicole Kidman, known for her elegant beauty and ability to immerse herself in roles, has also sparked controversy with daring scenes. In Stanley Kubrick’s Eyes Wide Shut (1999), alongside Tom Cruise, she participated in intense scenes that were captured in a provocative manner.
This film not only marked a shocking work but also highlighted a turning point in Kidman’s career, where she was recognized as a serious actress rather than just “Tom Cruise’s wife.” She continued to captivate audiences with roles in Moulin Rouge! (2001) and The Hours (2002), winning an Oscar and establishing her status as an A-list actress.
3. Scarlett Johansson
Scarlett Johansson represents a different case. From a young star, she has become a powerful sex symbol in Hollywood with her role as Black Widow in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Prior to this, Johansson made headlines with Lost in Translation (2003) and particularly with Under the Skin (2013), where she fully embraced her sensuality on screen.
In Under the Skin, she played an alien being who seduces men but also displays a remarkable ability to act with depth and nuance. Johansson has adeptly balanced mainstream roles with artistic performances, establishing her as one of the highest-paid actresses in Hollywood.
4. Natalie Portman
Natalie Portman, though often recognized for her innocent looks and intellect, has not shied away from bold roles. In Closer (2004), she portrayed a stripper in emotionally charged scenes alongside Clive Owen and Jude Law. This role marked her first Oscar nomination, proving she was more than just “the girl from Star Wars.”
Following this, Portman continued to impress with her performance in Black Swan (2010), a psychological thriller with steamy scenes that helped her win the Academy Award for Best Actress. Her commitment to her craft has always positioned her as a serious contender in the industry.
5. Halle Berry
Halle Berry is one of the pioneering actresses breaking barriers in Hollywood. Her role in Monster’s Ball (2001) not only earned her an Oscar (the first for an African American actress) but also stirred controversy with its bold and intimate scenes alongside Billy Bob Thornton.
Berry once shared that she accepted this role to deliver a powerful narrative, and the film became a significant moment in her career. Before this, she made an impact with her performance in Swordfish (2001), where her character’s provocative scene became iconic. Berry remains a strong advocate for actresses to be recognized for their talent beyond their physical appearance.
6. Megan Fox
Megan Fox, often labeled as a “sex symbol,” gained fame from Transformers (2007). In Jennifer’s Body (2009), she played a seductive and dangerous character in intense scenes that were seen as a breakthrough in her career. Although she hasn’t won many awards, Fox maintains her allure with her beauty and boldness, even as she seeks to break free from typecasting.
7. Margot Robbie
Margot Robbie is a notable star of the past decade. Since her breakout role in The Wolf of Wall Street (2013), where she confidently portrayed a powerful character alongside Leonardo DiCaprio, Robbie quickly became a sought-after name. Her role as Harley Quinn in Suicide Squad (2016) further combined her beauty with her acting talent. Robbie is not only a stunning face but also a talented producer, demonstrating her ability to control her own career.
8. Demi Moore
Demi Moore was once the queen of Hollywood in the 1990s. With Striptease (1996), she earned critical acclaim for portraying a stripper in daring scenes. Although the film did not receive high ratings, it marked a milestone in Moore’s career, establishing her as a bold actress willing to take risks. Previously, Ghost (1990) had already helped her gain global recognition, but Striptease showcased her willingness to explore complex narratives.
9. Kate Winslet
Finally, Kate Winslet embodies the fusion of talent and authenticity. In Titanic (1997), her daring scene in the film’s pivotal moment became iconic. She continued to make an impact with The Reader (2008), where steamy scenes paired with her mature performance helped her win an Oscar. Winslet consistently chooses roles with depth and her boldness has never limited her to being just a supporting character.
10. Sharon Stone
Sharon Stone is one of Hollywood’s most iconic sex symbols, famously recognized for her role in Basic Instinct (1992). The infamous interrogation scene, where the actress revealed her sexuality, catapulted her to global stardom overnight. Before this, Stone had appeared in B-movies, but Basic Instinct elevated her career, although she faced backlash regarding the controversial nature of her performance. She continued to prove her talent with Casino (1995), earning an Oscar nomination and breaking free from the label of “sex symbol” to establish herself as a serious actress.
These actresses, despite starting from different points and styles, all share a common ability to use boldness in their performances, whether through daring roles or sensual scenes. They not only capitalize on their beauty but also leverage their talent to transcend stereotypes, making significant contributions to the film industry. The 18+ roles or controversial scenes have played a part in their fame, but what’s more important is how they have transformed those moments into milestones that define their successful careers.
