Whenever we have a conversation between friends about the most beautiful actresses of all times, we mostly talk about Hollywood women. But, on a second thought, the European movie industry has known some of the most beautiful women, who are unknown to some, or they may have only heard about them. The world of cinematography is widely spread and French movies have also had their share of the deal. French women have always been related to the figure of sensuality and mystery. The icon of French cinematography is absolutely Brigitte Bardot with her beautiful blonde hair and the signature black eyeliner.
But, can you name other beautiful French actresses, apart from Brigitte Bardot?
In tribute to beauty and sensuality, we will show you the most fascinating French women of all times.
- Brigitte Bardot
The beautiful icon first appeared on the screen in 1952 as Javotte Lemoine in “Crazy for Love”. In 1953 she became part of an American production movie, but later on she decided to pursue her career in France. She became famous in the USA, especially men were obsessed with her and only because of her unique figure, something that the American men had not seen in a long time, the term “sex kitten” was invented. But, her acting career did not last long, because before turning 40, Bardot retired from acting and decided to focus on animal rights. For this reason she established “Foundation Brigitte Bardot”.
- Catherine Deneuve
Catherine Deneuve started her acting career in 1957, but she only became famous in 1964 with an exceptional performance in the musical “The Umbrellas of Cherbourg”. In 1992 she got her first Academy Award nomination for her performance in the drama “Indochine”. Her love for acting has never stopped and you can still see her playing in different movies.
- Isabelle Adjani
Isabelle Adjani’s curriculum vitae is certainly filled with nominations and wins as she is considered as the only actress who has won 5 Cesar Award for Best Actress for “Possession” (1981), “One Deadly Summer” (1983), “Camille Claudel” (1988), “Queen Margot” (1994)and “La journée de la jupe” (2008). In 1981 she won two times at the Cannes Film Festival for “Possession and Quartet” and she has also been nominated two times for the Academy Award. In 2010 she was made a Chevalier de la Légiond’honneur.
- Michèle Mercier
Michèle Mercier is mostly known for her part in “Angélique, the Marquise of the Angels”. She was so eager to be part of this movie, and she finally made it after other famous actresses were turned down or refused to be part of it because of their busy schedule. This movie not only gave Mercier a bigger popularity, but people started referring to her as Angélique. At a certain point, Michèle and Angélique were one another’s synonyms.
- Jeanne Moreau
Jeanne Moreau started her passion for acting in the theatre. After 1949 she started playing in different movies where her most successful movie is “Jules et Jim” 1962. Apart from acting, Moreau pursued a career in the music industry where she also had the opportunity to sing with Frank Sinatra. She also worked as a director, producer and writer.
- Michèle Morgan
Michèle Morgan is also recognized for her breathtaking appearance, which is the synonym of French beauty. She started her acting career in France at only 15 years old. Later on she moved to the US to pursue a career there, but could not stand out among other famous actresses at that time. So, she moved back to France where in 1947 she received her first win at The Cannes Film Festival for her role in “Pastoral Symphony”.
- Anouk Aimée
Anouk Aimée’s career includes famous movies such as “La Dolce Vita” (1960), “Lola” (1961), “8 ½” (1963), “A Man and a Woman” (1966) where she received her first Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, “Tragedy of a Ridiculous Man” (1981), etc. In 2002 she received an honorary César Award. When referring to her beauty she is considered as a Femme Fatale and one of the sexiest actresses of all times.
- Emmanuelle Béart
Béart’s beauty is widely recognized and it was her beauty that got her to play in David Hamilton’s movie, “Premiers désirs” (1983). She became famous in France in 1986 for her part in “Manon of the Spring”, while her most successful movie was “La Belle Noiseuse” 1991.
- Sophie Marceau
Sophie Marceau acting talent crossed the ocean and made her appear in famous Hollywood movies such as “Braveheart” (1995), “Firelight” (1997) and the James Bond movie “The World is not Enough” (1999). Besides acting, she also pursued a career as a director.
- Mireille Darc
Mireille Darc was a French model and actress. She is also recognized as the long-time partner of Alain Delon. The couple were in a relationship for 15 years and acted together in several movies. She started her acting career in 1960, but she got her first leading role in 1961 in “Hauteclaire”.
Photos taken from Imdb.com
By Enxhi Tufina
