Playing a prostitute on-screen requires guts and subtlety. They are not only ostracized from society but, are also disgusted and abhorred by people. But what they don’t seem to understand is how this faction is compelled by circumstances to engage themselves for the sustenance of their loved ones. Their hardships, moral quandaries, and exploitation have found an empathizing friend in motion pictures. Over the years, the leading ladies of Hollywood and Bollywood have encumbered themselves of accomplishing respect and acceptability for the oppressed group from the general people.
1. Kim Basinger
Probably one of the greatest crime-thrillers ever made, LA Confidential, was an achievement in terms of two things. First was its successful creation of one of the most intricate plots in the history of cinema, and its convoluted and egregious twists. The other was the launching of relatively unknown actors into global stardom, like Russel Crowe and Guy Pearce. One other name which was into the latter category was Kim Basinger. Like many of the portrayals in the list, hers was a brief one, too. Managing only 35 minutes of screen time, Basinger captured the essence of the character with much aplomb and elevated the level of the film. Her performance also fetched her an Academy Award.
2. Anne Hathaway
Anne Hathaway is one of the most gorgeous and talented actresses around. Her unbridled arrays into uncharted territories have often transpired into award-winning performances. It was no different in a French-American musical that saw her portray the role of a destitute woman, who is compelled into selling her body due to getting fired from her job. Her 20-minute appearance was perhaps the most moving performance of the year and fetched her a well-deserved Academy Award. The struggle and helplessness of the character were immaculately captured by the brunette actress. Eventually succumbing to her death, her orphan daughter is then adopted by her employer.
3. Nicole Kidman
The gorgeous Nicole Kidman received a well-deserved Oscar nomination for her art film. The electric film was a huge critical and commercial success, owing to its flawless execution and catchy musical numbers. It was the first musical to be nominated for Best Picture in over a decade. During the shooting, Kidman injured her ribs while filming one of the more complicated dance sequences; she also stated in an interview that she broke her rib while getting into a corset, by tightening it as much as possible to achieve an 18-inch waist. So much for perfection.
4. Julia Roberts
Pretty Woman is probably one of the most referenced movies in today’s modern culture. Robert’s portrayal of Vivian, a prostitute who is hired for a night by a rich American businessman and socialite (Gere), eventually falling in love, is one of cinema’s most iconic portrayals. Her performance fetched her a Golden Globe and her first Academy Award nomination as well. The film was a huge commercial and critical success, topping the list of movies with the highest tickets sold. Her portrayal even today remains a reference point for actresses, a lesson on how to connect with the audiences, no matter what role you play! Hats off.
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