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Rosie Perez's Top 10 Movies, Ranked

Explore Rosie Perez's most powerful performances across three decades of cinema, featuring her versatility in drama, comedy, and action genres. From her breakthrough in Do the Right Thing to recent successes, discover what makes these roles special.

Rosie Perez: Best Of The Best

Having followed Rosie Perez's career since her electrifying debut, I've watched her transform from a dynamic newcomer into one of Hollywood's most versatile actresses. Her filmography spans over three decades, showcasing an impressive range that few performers can match. Let's count down her ten most outstanding performances.

Key Takeaways

Rosie Perez has demonstrated incredible range across comedy, drama, and action genres
Her breakthrough role in Do the Right Thing (1989) established her as a powerful dramatic presence
From indie films to major studio productions, Perez has consistently delivered memorable performances
Recent work like Birds of Prey shows her continued ability to command the screen

Top 10 Films

10. It Could Happen to You (1994)

Director: Andrew Bergman Genre: Romantic Comedy Main Cast: Nicolas Cage, Bridget Fonda, Rosie Perez

It Could Happen to You - Official movie backdrop from The Movie Database (TMDB). A high-quality cinematic still showcasing a key scene or setting from the film. — Official movie backdrop from It Could Happen to You

Having watched this film multiple times, I can confirm that Perez's portrayal of Muriel Lang is absolutely unforgettable. Her character's explosive energy and perfect comedic timing create some of the most memorable moments in this heartwarming tale about a police officer who shares his lottery winnings with a waitress.

9. Pineapple Express (2008)

Director: David Gordon Green Genre: Comedy/Action Main Cast: Seth Rogen, James Franco, Rosie Perez

Pineapple Express - Official movie backdrop from The Movie Database (TMDB). A high-quality cinematic still showcasing a key scene or setting from the film. — Official movie backdrop from Pineapple Express

I was particularly impressed by Perez's turn as corrupt police officer Carol Brazier. Her ability to hold her own among the film's comedy heavyweights while adding a genuine sense of menace to her character showcases her remarkable range.

8. Birds of Prey (2020)

Director: Cathy Yan Genre: Action/Comedy Main Cast: Margot Robbie, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Rosie Perez

Birds of Prey - Official movie backdrop from The Movie Database (TMDB). A high-quality cinematic still showcasing a key scene or setting from the film. — Official movie backdrop from Birds of Prey

Watching Perez take on the role of tough-as-nails Detective Renee Montoya was a real treat. She brought a perfect blend of world-weary determination and sardonic humor to this comic book adaptation, proving she's just as capable of commanding the screen in action-packed blockbusters as she is in intimate dramas.

7. The Take (2007)

Director: Brad Furman Genre: Crime Drama Main Cast: John Leguizamo, Rosie Perez, Bobby Cannavale

The Take - Official movie backdrop from The Movie Database (TMDB). A high-quality cinematic still showcasing a key scene or setting from the film. — Official movie backdrop from The Take

The raw emotion Perez brings to her role as Felix's wife Marina left me speechless. Her portrayal of a woman dealing with the aftermath of violence feels incredibly genuine, and I found myself completely invested in her character's journey throughout the film.

6. Night on Earth (1991)

Director: Jim Jarmusch Genre: Comedy-Drama Main Cast: Winona Ryder, Gena Rowlands, Rosie Perez

Night on Earth - Official movie backdrop from The Movie Database (TMDB). A high-quality cinematic still showcasing a key scene or setting from the film. — Official movie backdrop from Night on Earth

In my opinion, Perez's segment as a motormouthed New York taxi driver is one of the film's highlights. Her natural charisma shines through in every scene, making her character's late-night journey both hilarious and touching.

5. Untamed Heart (1993)

Director: Tony Bill Genre: Romance Drama Main Cast: Christian Slater, Marisa Tomei, Rosie Perez

Untamed Heart - Official movie backdrop from The Movie Database (TMDB). A high-quality cinematic still showcasing a key scene or setting from the film. — Official movie backdrop from Untamed Heart

Every time I revisit this film, I'm struck by how Perez brings such warmth and authenticity to her supporting role as Cindy. She provides the perfect counterbalance to the main romantic storyline, adding depth and genuine friendship to the narrative.

4. Riding in Cars with Boys (2001)

Director: Penny Marshall Genre: Comedy-Drama Main Cast: Drew Barrymore, Steve Zahn, Rosie Perez

Riding in Cars with Boys - Official movie backdrop from The Movie Database (TMDB). A high-quality cinematic still showcasing a key scene or setting from the film. — Official movie backdrop from Riding in Cars with Boys

I found Perez's portrayal of Shirley Perro to be one of the film's strongest elements. She brings a wonderful mix of loyalty and tough love to her role as the protagonist's best friend, creating some of the most genuine moments in the story.

3. White Men Can't Jump (1992)

Director: Ron Shelton Genre: Comedy-Drama Main Cast: Wesley Snipes, Woody Harrelson, Rosie Perez

White Men Can't Jump - Official movie backdrop from The Movie Database (TMDB). A high-quality cinematic still showcasing a key scene or setting from the film. — Official movie backdrop from White Men Can't Jump

As Gloria Clemente, Perez delivered what I consider to be one of her most iconic performances. Her chemistry with Harrelson is electric, and her character's passion for trivia game shows adds a unique layer to this basketball-centred comedy.

2. Fearless (1993)

Director: Peter Weir Genre: Drama Main Cast: Jeff Bridges, Isabella Rossellini, Rosie Perez

Fearless - Official movie backdrop from The Movie Database (TMDB). A high-quality cinematic still showcasing a key scene or setting from the film. — Official movie backdrop from Fearless

In what I regard as one of her most powerful dramatic performances, Perez portrays Carla Rodrigo with devastating effectiveness. Her portrayal of a mother dealing with a survivor's guilt showcases her incredible dramatic range and earned her a well-deserved Oscar nomination.

Check out Fearless and more in our Underrated Picks of the 90s...

1. Do the Right Thing (1989)

Director: Spike Lee Genre: Drama Main Cast: Spike Lee, Danny Aiello, Rosie Perez

Do the Right Thing - Official movie backdrop from The Movie Database (TMDB). A high-quality cinematic still showcasing a key scene or setting from the film. — Official movie backdrop from Do the Right Thing

This breakthrough role remains one of my favorite Perez performances. From the explosive opening dance sequence to her powerful emotional scenes, her portrayal of Tina set the stage for a career filled with memorable characters. The raw energy she brings to this debut role is still electrifying to watch today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do the Right Thing (1989) marked Perez's breakthrough, where she delivered an unforgettable performance in Spike Lee's critically acclaimed film.

Perez received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Fearless (1993).

Perez is known for her versatility across drama, comedy, and action genres, often bringing intense energy and emotional depth to her characters.

Her role as Gloria Clemente in White Men Can't Jump (1992) is widely considered her most successful comedy performance, showcasing her perfect chemistry with Woody Harrelson and her impeccable comedic timing.

Yes, Perez starred as Detective Renee Montoya in Birds of Prey (2020), bringing her talent to the DC Extended Universe and proving her continued versatility in modern blockbuster films.

Her performance in Fearless (1993) is considered her most critically acclaimed dramatic role, earning her an Academy Award nomination and widespread praise for her portrayal of a grief-stricken mother dealing with survivor's guilt.

Rosie Perez's Top 10 Movies, Ranked

Key Takeaways