Unforgettable Swimsuit Scenes In Movie History
JESSICA ALBA – INTO THE BLUE, 2005
Jessica Marie Alba, a triumphant American businesswoman and actress, first graced the Hollywood scene at the tender age of 13. Born on April 28, 1981, Alba swiftly rose to prominence, capturing the hearts of audiences when she was merely 19 years old, thanks to her leading role in the series “Dark Angel.”
In 2005, Jessica took on a significant role in the American thriller and action film “Into The Blue,” portraying Samantha Nicholson alongside co-stars Paul Walker, Josh Brolin, and Ashley Scott. The plot revolves around a couple’s attempt to extricate themselves from the clutches of a drug lord after they stumble upon illicit contraband aboard a sunken plane. The movie garnered global attention, amassing approximately $44 million in worldwide box office revenue, and was met with substantial adoration and acclaim.
ANNETTE FUNICELLO – BEACH PARTY, 1963
Born on October 22, 1942, Annette Funicello stands as an accomplished American actress and singer, with a lesser-known early start that commenced at the age of 12. Prior to solidifying her status as a triumphant film actress, Annette first graced the screen as one of the standout Mouseketeers on the original Mickey Mouse Club, a detail often overlooked. Alongside her acting pursuits, she showcased her musical talents, releasing singles like “Tall Paul” and “Pineapple Princess” during her youth
Annette’s pivotal career breakthrough materialized through her appearance in the film “Beach Party,” where she starred alongside Frankie Avalon. This film marked the inaugural entry in a series of seven “Beach Party” movies tailored for a teenage audience.
CARRIE FISHER – STAR WARS, 1977
Her indelible imprint on the acting world was solidified through her portrayal of Princess Leia in the science fiction classic “Star Wars Episode IV – A New Hope.” Sharing the screen with Harrison Ford and Mark Hamill, Fisher’s performance resonated deeply with audiences. However, before securing this iconic role, Fisher faced the requirement of shedding 10 pounds. Her dedication paid off, as she not only embodied the character but also received recognition through four Saturn Award nominations for her contribution to the Star Wars saga.
SHARON TATE – DON’T MAKE WAVES, 1967
Recognized for her presence in the pages of fashion magazines as a model, Sharon Tate also stands as an accomplished American actress. Commencing her journey in the entertainment world on television, she ventured into the realm of cinema, earning accolades for her comedic flair and acting prowess.
Although her cinematic debut was a minor role as an extra in “Barabbas,” it was her appearance in the comedy film “Don’t Make Waves” that propelled her into the spotlight. Set against the backdrop of scenic beaches, this movie showcased Tate’s captivating charm. Her captivating presence in these beachside scenes captured the imagination of audiences worldwide, garnering immense attention and admiration.
FARRAH FAWCETT – SUNBURN, 1979
Farrah Leni Fawcett, an American fashion model, artist, and actress, graced the world with her presence on February 2, 1947. Embarking on her Hollywood journey at the tender age of 21, she initially ventured into the industry through commercials and guest appearances on notable TV series like “Six Million Dollar Man” and “Harry O.”
It was her role in “Charlie’s Angels” that served as a pivotal moment, propelling her into the realm of movies. Among her cinematic endeavors was “Sunburn,” a British-American comedy detective film released in 1979. Within the movie, Farrah assumed the character of Ellie Morgan, a hired spouse to Dekker. Her first foray into film, “Sunburn,” fetched an impressive $3.5 million in sales.
BO DEREK – 10, 1979
Born on November 20, 1956, Mary Cathleen Collins, widely recognized by her stage name Bo Derek, left an indelible mark as an American model and actress. Her prominence soared through her role in the romantic comedy film “10,” which debuted in 1979. At a mere 19 years old, Mary Collins, who initially performed under the moniker Bo Shane, entered matrimony with John Derek, and thereafter adopted the name Bo Derek.
Her portrayal of Jenny Hanley not only garnered immense popularity but also made her distinctive cornrow hairstyle a trend embraced and imitated by the masses. “10” proved to be her springboard to fame, transforming Bo Derek into an emblem of feminine allure. Furthermore, her portrayal earned her a nomination for the Golden Globe Award for New Star of the Year.
JACQUELINE BISSET – THE SWEET RIDE, 1968
Renowned for her exquisite beauty, Jacqueline Bisset stands as an English actress of distinction. Her journey into the realm of film commenced in 1965 with “The Knack… and How to Get It,” although she wasn’t officially credited for her role at the time. However, it was her appearance in the comedy-drama “Two for the Road” that marked her first significant role.
With a tenacious spirit, she persevered, working diligently to secure roles in films like “The Detective,” “Bullitt,” and “The Sweet Ride” in 1968. It was in “The Sweet Ride” that she portrayed Vickie Cartwright, a role that earned her a notable recognition – a Golden Globe Nomination.
JOAN BLACKMAN – BLUE HAWAII, 1961
Born on May 17, 1938, in San Francisco, California, Joan May Blackman, also known as John Blackman, embarked on her acting journey at the tender age of 19. Her remarkable talent and dedication swiftly garnered her a devoted following. Although her acting career has transitioned, Joan remains a notable presence on social media.
Among her notable accomplishments, it is her collaboration with Elvis Presley that shines brightly. Particularly, her role in “Blue Hawaii” earned her substantial recognition. Portraying Elvis’s girlfriend in the film, Joan’s on-screen chemistry with him resonated deeply. Interestingly, even before their cinematic collaboration, Elvis held a fascination for her. As they worked together, their connection sparked rumors of a potential romantic involvement.
RACHEL MCADAMS – THE NOTEBOOK, 2004
Born on November 17, 1978, Rachel Anne McAdams is a celebrated Canadian actress. After completing her education, she delved into Canadian film production and television. Her venture into Hollywood commenced in 2003 with the comedy “The Hot Chick,” but it was her exceptional portrayal in the 2004 romantic drama “The Notebook” that catapulted her to fame.
“The Notebook,” based on Nicholas Sparks’ novel of the same name, showcased McAdams alongside Ryan Gosling. Her portrayal of Allie Hamilton, entangled in a forbidden romance, garnered widespread acclaim. The film’s success was resounding, and McAdams’ performance not only earned immense praise from audiences but also garnered her numerous awards and nominations.
ESTHER WILLIAMS – EASY TO LOVE, 1953
Esther Williams, a celebrated figure in the United States, was not only a competitive swimmer but also an accomplished actress. Williams is forever etched in history as the enchanting star who elevated swimming to an art form. Her legacy shines particularly bright through her iconic film “Million Dollar Mermaid,” inspired by the Australian aquatic sensation Annette Kellerman. This movie stands as the ultimate platform to showcase Esther’s extraordinary aquatic talents.
One of her notable works, “Easy to Love,” unfolds as a technicolor musical film under the direction of Charles Walters. With choreography by Busby Berkeley, the film stars Williams alongside Van Johnson and Tony Martin. It stands as Williams’ final aquatic-themed film set within the United States. Notably, her retro look, adorned in a white swimsuit, accentuates her exceptional beauty and adds to the allure of the film.
DENISE RICHARDS – WILD THINGS, 1998
Her most notable achievement lies in her portrayal of Kelly Lanier Van Ryan in “Wild Things.” This tantalizing thriller, released in 1998, gained notoriety for its sensuous scenes. The film served as a turning point, altering the perception of Denise in the eyes of the public. Previously recognized for her depiction of virtuous characters, her role in “Wild Things” saw her embody the part of a manipulative villain, completely reshaping her on-screen persona.
SOPHIA LOREN – MADAME SANS GENE, 1961
Remarkably, she is the sole living actress acknowledged in the illustrious roster of the Greatest Female Stars of Classic Hollywood Cinema. Amid her many remarkable films, the 1961 production “Madame Sans Gene” stands out. In this movie, she embodied the character of Catherine Hubscher. Her resplendent presence within the film set a new standard for elegance, leaving an indelible mark on the era’s cinematic landscape.
BRIGITTE BARDOT – GIRL IN THE BIKINI, 1958
Evidently, Bardot’s father had arranged a contractual agreement to preserve his daughter’s modesty on screen. However, amidst the production process, an image emerged of her adorned in a white bikini, inadvertently becoming a pivotal focal point of the film. This unexpected unveiling of her in a bikini became a defining moment that significantly heightened the film’s attention and her allure.
SALLY FIELD – GIDGET, 1965
Among her many endeavors, “Gidget” emerges as a standout in Sally’s career. Joining the show at a mere 18 years old, she left an indelible mark. Her portrayal of the endearing character showcased a young woman adorned in a charming two-piece set, captivating the attention of the audience and becoming an emblematic presence on the show.
RACHEL WELCH – BEDAZZLED, 1967
Raquel Welch, an emblem of the 1960s and 1970s, stands as an enduring icon of those eras. Her versatile talents span acting, singing, and modeling, with a distinctive focus on portraying robust female characters on screen. In the 1960s, Welch embarked on a transformative journey, shedding her image as a mere “blonde bombshell” to reveal her multifaceted talents and earn recognition for more than her appearance.
Her ascendancy to a new echelon of stardom coincided with her role in the British comedy film “Bedazzled,” released in 1967. Within the movie, she embodied the character of “Lilian Lust,” one of the seven deadly sins. Her glamorous portrayal and remarkable acting prowess garnered her favorable reviews, solidifying her reputation as an accomplished and multidimensional performer.
PAM GRIER – COFFY, 1973
Grier’s ascent to fame was largely attributed to her pivotal roles in films like “Coffy” and “Foxy Brown.” In “Coffy,” she assumed the character of a nurse with a vengeful quest against local drug dealers. Her persona was boldly touted as the “baddest one-chick hit-squad that ever hit the town!” – a declaration that even found resonance in the film’s trailer. The movie, replete with both sensuous and violent elements, resonated with audiences and triumphed at the box office.
SALMA HAYEK – FROM DUSK TO DAWN, 1996
Salma Hayek Pinault, originally born as Salma Valgarma Hayek Jiménez on September 2, 1966, stands as a notable Mexican American film producer and actress. Her acting journey commenced in 1989 with a role in the telenovela “Teresa,” but it was her appearances in films like “Dogma” and “From Dusk Till Dawn” that catapulted her into stardom.
In “From Dusk Till Dawn,” an American horror action film, Salma portrayed a vampire queen concealed beneath the guise of a stripper named Santanico Pandemonium. Her character meets her end when George Clooney’s character, Seth, impales her by shooting the chandelier above her. One of the movie’s standout moments was Salma’s alluring table-top dance with snakes, a scene that captured significant attention and popularity.
DEMI MOORE – CHARLIE’S ANGELS: FULL THROTTLE, 2003
Born on November 11, 1962, this American actress stands as a significant advocate for gender pay equity in Hollywood, despite herself being among the highest-paid actresses in the 1980s and 1990s.
In 2003, Demi Gene Moore made her return to the silver screen, assuming the role of a villain in “Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle.” She shared the spotlight with Cameron Diaz and Lucy Liu, earning a nomination for the Best Villain award. Within this American action comedy film, Moore portrayed the character Madison Lee, a former Angel turned independent operative. The movie achieved notable success, amassing a global box office revenue exceeding $259 million.
PHOEBE CATES – FAST TIMES AT RIDGEMONT HIGH, 1982
“Fast Times at Ridgemont High,” released in 1982, stands as a drama-comedy film that garnered over $27 million in revenue. Within the movie, Phoebe portrayed the character Linda Barrett, a role that catapulted her to widespread recognition. Her performance not only graced the covers of magazines like Tiger Beat and Seventeen but also secured her an enduring place in the hearts of audiences. Notably, The Rolling Stones deemed the film’s bikini-drop scene as “the most memorable bikini-drop in cinema history.”
VIRGINIE LEDOYEN – THE BEACH, 2000
Virginie Fernández, recognized by her captivating stage identity, Virginie Ledoyen, is a celebrated figure in the realm of entertainment. This exceptional French actress boasts an impressive repertoire of acclaimed films that have resonated with audiences worldwide. Born on November 15, 1976, in Aubervilliers, her talent and charm have left an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape.
While she has enchanted French cinema enthusiasts with her performances, Ledoyen’s prominence soared further when she embodied the role of Françoise, the significant other of Étienne, in the cinematic adaptation of “The Beach.” This cinematic piece, brimming with both drama and adventure, draws its essence from the novel penned by Alex Garland. Sharing the screen with luminaries Leonardo DiCaprio and Tilda Swinton, Ledoyen’s portrayal resonates with authenticity, contributing to the success of this compelling creation masterfully orchestrated by John Hodge.
URSULA ANDRESS – DR. NO, 1962
Ursula Andress embodies the essence of a true diva, a Swiss actress renowned for her trailblazing fashion prowess. Raised amidst a family of six siblings, her early years saw her take on the role of a nanny. From these humble beginnings, she embarked on a remarkable journey, transitioning from inconspicuous appearances in films to becoming a prominent figure within the illustrious James Bond series.
Her breakthrough arrived with her captivating portrayal of Honey Ryder in the inaugural James Bond film, “Dr. No.” Directed by Terence Young, this espionage thriller marked a pivotal moment in her career. Notably, Ursula’s appearance in the film adorned in a resplendent white bikini has etched an indelible mark in cinematic history. This iconic bikini stands as a testament to her enduring allure and is hailed as one of the most stunning pieces of fashion ever witnessed. Beyond its visual magnificence, the scene itself has transcended into a cinematic masterpiece, intertwining the realms of art and fashion in a harmonious embrace.
KATE BOSWORTH – BLUE CRUSH, 2002
Within the film’s narrative, Bosworth skillfully portrayed the character Anne Marie Chadwick, a spirited young surfer. To fully embody this role, she dedicated herself to rigorous training, investing approximately seven hours each day for several months to sculpt her physique and gain the necessary muscularity. This arduous commitment bore fruit as her performance garnered widespread admiration, showcasing her dedication to her craft.
HALLE BERRY – DIE ANOTHER DAY, 2002
Among her notable portrayals, the character Jinx Johnson in the film “Die Another Day” stands out, a role that garnered profound adoration from audiences. A particularly iconic moment from the movie captures Halle emerging from the ocean, an homage to Ursula Andress’ portrayal of Honey Ryder in the inaugural Bond film, “Dr. No.” The bikini-clad image pays homage not only to the scene but also to the legacy of the Bond franchise. Notably, Lindy Hemming, the visionary designer, ingeniously orchestrated this tribute, suggesting the incorporation of a knife to amplify the homage’s impact.
SUE LYON – LOLITA, 1962
Transforming from a teenage model into a prominent actress and a revered fashion icon, Sue Lyon’s journey is a tale of remarkable evolution. As an American actress, she has graced the silver screen in notable films including “The Night of the Iguana,” “7 Women,” and “Tony Rome.” Nevertheless, it was her captivating portrayal in the lead role of the 1962 film “Lolita” that catapulted her into the limelight.
Amidst auditions that involved 800 aspiring young actresses, Sue Lyon emerged as the chosen one for the role—an achievement that underscores her exceptional talent. Astonishingly, she was merely 14 years old when she brought to life the character of Dolores “Lolita” Haze. This portrayal not only solidified her presence in the industry but also earned her the distinction of becoming the fourth-youngest actor to secure a coveted Golden Globe Award.
BROOKE SHIELDS – THE BLUE LAGOON, 1980
Born to the renowned model and actress Teri Shields in 1965, Brooke Christa Shields embarked on her modeling odyssey at a mere 11 months old. As a child model and actress, she charted an exceptionally triumphant trajectory, even gracing the cover of Vogue magazine at the tender age of 14, thus becoming the youngest fashion model to achieve such an esteemed honor.
One of her most distinguished cinematic achievements came in the form of the 1980 release “The Blue Lagoon,” where Shields portrayed the character Emmeline. This sensuous movie, co-starring Christopher Atkins, captivated audiences with its narrative of teenage romance set against the backdrop of a tropical island. Evoking both passion and controversy through its inclusion of nude scenes, the film remarkably garnered over $58 million in box office earnings, a remarkable feat considering its modest $4.5 million budget.
LUDIVINE SAGNIER – SWIMMING POOL, 2003
Born on July 3, 1979, this enchanting French talent set foot on the grand stage of cinema at the remarkably young age of nine, marking her auspicious debut in the year 1989. Ludivine Sagnier catapulted into the Hollywood limelight in 2003 with the captivating movie “Swimming Pool,” a significant milestone that garnered her a slew of nominations and accolades.
Helmed by the skilled director François Ozon, this suspenseful masterpiece features the brilliant performances of both Charlotte Rampling and Ludivine Sagnier. Within the film’s intriguing narrative, Sagnier assumes the role of Julie, a character who asserts herself as the daughter of the acclaimed crime novelist Sarah Morton. “Swimming Pool” emerged as a resounding success at the box office, basking in the adoration of audiences and critics alike.
ELIZABETH HURLEY – BEDAZZLED, 2000
Gaining prominence for her portrayal of the Devil, manifesting in the guise of a youthful and resplendent woman in the cinematic gem “Bedazzled,” Hurley’s captivating performance left audiences awestruck. Unveiled to the world in the year 2000, the movie garnered a diverse range of critical responses, yet Elizabeth’s portrayal garnered resounding acclaim, further solidifying her talents. Within this romantic-comedy fantasy, she shared the screen with Brendan Fraser, and her brilliance shone through with unparalleled radiance.
ELIZABETH TAYLOR – SUDDENLY LAST SUMMER, 1960
Born on February 27, 1932, Elizabeth Taylor stands as a luminary in both British and American cinema. Her journey commenced during her formative years, ultimately propelling her to iconic status as a celebrated figure within classic Hollywood during the 1950s. Despite being born to socially distinguished parents, she diligently forged her own path, marked by tenacity and fervor.
Stepping into the 1960s, Elizabeth ascended to the zenith of her profession as the highest-earning luminary of the silver screen. Her unforgettable portrayal, clad in a resplendent white bikini in the cinematic gem “Suddenly, Last Summer,” ignited fervent discussions and became an indelible topic of conversation. According to the creators, this controversy lent a beneficial dimension to the film. The theatrical poster, featuring Taylor’s famed bikini-clad image, further contributed to the film’s notoriety.
PAMELA ANDERSON – BAYWATCH, 1995
Her ascent to prominence was profoundly marked by her portrayal of the fictional character Casey Jean, affectionately known as C.J. Parker, within the iconic series “Baywatch.” Anderson’s embodiment of this role propelled her to international stardom, solidifying her as a captivating symbol of sensuality. Notably, her portrayal of C.J. Parker earned her distinction as the longest-serving character, a feat that cemented her legacy. The emblematic red swimsuits that adorned the cast of “Baywatch” were meticulously crafted, tailored to accentuate the allure of each actress.