The most beautiful photos of Penelope Cruz, star of the movie Vanilla Sky

For over three decades, Penélope Cruz has captivated both filmmakers and photographers alike. She is one of those actresses whose photographs never cease to mesmerize, from red carpets to movie sets. Here’s a curated collection of 26 photos of the magnetic Spanish actress, who stars in Vanilla Sky, airing Wednesday, April 9, 2025, on Arte.

by La rédaction.

Publié le 9 april 2025. Modifié le 10 April 2025.

A muse for filmmakers and fashion icon

A longtime muse to director Pedro Almodóvar and a cinematic icon for more than thirty years, Penélope Cruz continues to fascinate the world’s greatest directors and photographers. Her deep gaze, striking features, and unmistakable Spanish accent have made her one of Hollywood’s most sought-after talents. She was honored with an Academy Award in 2009 for her role in Woody Allen’s cult film Vicky Cristina Barcelona (2008), in which she stars alongside her husband Javier Bardem and actress Scarlett Johansson.

More recently, Cruz starred opposite Adam Driver in Michael Mann’s latest film Ferrari (2024), where she portrayed Laura Ferrari, the wife of the legendary Italian racing driver. Now, the 50-year-old actress revisits one of the pivotal films from the early years of her international career.

Penélope Cruz: Almodóvar’s Leading Lady and the Star of Vanilla Sky

Vanilla Sky (2001) airs on Arte this April 9. Inspired by the Spanish film Open Your Eyes (1997), in which Cruz also starred, this American remake pairs her with Tom Cruise in the roles of a dancer and a playboy. Their undeniable chemistry is evident from their very first encounter—until an unexpected twist reshapes everything, following a car accident that leaves Cruise’s character disfigured…

For her performance, Cruz earned a Golden Globe nomination, showcasing a poignant range of emotions. Her mesmerizing presence was recently seen again in the short film created for Chanel’s Fall-Winter 2024–2025 runway show, where she played a hopeless romantic opposite an especially tender Brad Pitt.

Through her films and red carpet appearances, Penélope Cruz has built an image that transcends the stereotypical “Latin bombshell.” Here, we look back at her most magnetic photos—from her 1996 debut to her latest cinematic roles.

Vanilla Sky (2001) by Cameron Crowe, airing on Arte this April 9, 2025, and streaming on Arte.tv.