Whether you know Jennifer Lopez through her chart success or because you’re a fan of her acting work, there’s no denying the singer, dancer, actor, and personality is a huge star. Often regarded as one of the most influential Latin entertainers of all-time, Lopez has built up a solid career over the years and continues to impress her fans, old and new.

In terms of her movie portfolio, Lopez has fronted a series of pictures which have given her the opportunity to display her talents. Films range from romantic comedies, action movies, and dramas, to crime pictures, and thrillers, and include the likes of HustlersBordertown, and Maid in Manhattan, amongst others.

Should you be interested in taking a look at Lopez’s best work, you have come to the right place. Below is a run-through of the 12 best Jennifer Lopez movies for your consideration.

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Selena (1997)

Image: ©Warner Bros.

First up is the biographical musical drama, Selena. Written and directed by Gregory Nava, the movie sees Lopez take on the lead role of Tejano music icon, Selena Quintanilla-Pérez.

Beginning with her early years, the film details Selena’s rise to stardom, as well as her successes. The film also sadly covers Selena’s untimely death at the age of 23.

Lopez gives a star turn in the film, in what proved to be a significant role for the actress. Joining her on screen is a cast which includes Edward James Olmos, Jon Seda, and Constance Marie.

Out of Sight (1998)

Image: ©Universal Pictures

Up next is the sizzling crime caper, Out of Sight. Directed by Steven Soderbergh, and based on Elmore Leonard’s book of the same name, the film follows the story of bank robber Jack Foley and his encounter with US Marshal Karen Sisco.

In Out of Sight, Lopez shares the screen with a cast that includes Ving Rhames, Don Cheadle, Steve Zahn, Albert Brookes and Dennis Farina. However it is her scenes with co-star George Clooney which stand out.

Hustlers (2019)

Image: ©STXfilms

In Hustlers, a team of New York strippers steal money from clients who visit their club. Lopez stars amongst an ensemble cast which includes Julia Stiles, Constance Wu, Keke Palmer, Cardi B, Lizo, and Lili Reinhart.

Marry Me (2022)

Image: ©Universal Pictures

Based on a graphic novel by Bobby Crosby, Marry Me is a romantic comedy about a world-famous pop star who develops an unexpected relationship with a maths teacher. Directed by Kat Coiro, the film teams Lopez up with co-star Owen Wilson for a fun and frothy film which is as enjoyable as it is far-fetched.

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The Cell (2000)

Image: ©New Line Cinema

Up next is the psychological horror-thriller, The Cell. In the film, Lopez takes on the part of psychologist Catherine Deane, who is asked by the FBI to assist on a kidnapping case involving a disturbed individual.

Vince Vaughn and Vincent D’Onofrio co-star. Tarsem Singh directs.

Shotgun Wedding (2022)

Image: ©Amazon Studios/Lionsgate

In Shotgun Wedding, Lopez plays Darcy Rivera – a beautiful bride to be who is on the verge of getting married to the love of her life, Tom Fowler. However, her picture perfect wedding in the Philippines is thrown into chaos when a group of pirates show up and take the wedding guests hostage. 

What follows is an action-packed, humour-filled adventure romp as Darcy and Tom fight to get their big day back on track. Jason Moore directs, while Lopez stars alongside Josh Duhamel, Jennifer Coolidge, Cheech Marin, Sonia Braga, Steve Coulter, and Lenny Kravitz.

Halftime (2022)

Image: ©Netflix

Onto something a little different now – the documentary film, Halftime. The movie – directed by Amanda Micheli – follows the life and career of Lopez, showcasing the ups and downs of being in the spotlight.

Featuring narration from Lopez, the docu-film offers a unique window into J.Lo’s world. The movie highlights her passion and drive, as well as her desire to keep pushing ever-onward despite challenges.

Enough (2002)

Image: ©Sony Pictures

In Enough, Lopez gives a powerful performance as she takes on the role of Slim Hiller – an abused wife who learns how to fight back. Directed by Michael Apted, the movie is based on the novel Black and Blue by Anna Quindlen, and features a cast which includes Billy Campbell, Juliette Lewis, Noah Wyle, and Fred Ward.

Bordertown (2007)

Image: ©THINKFilm/Capitol Films

Inspired by a true story, Bordertown follows a reporter as she goes on assignment to investigate a series of murders. Lopez plays Chicago Sentinel reporter, Lauren Adrian in the film, while supporting players include Antonio Banderas, Sônia Braga, and Martin Sheen.

Maid in Manhattan (2002)

Image: ©Sony Pictures

For this next movie, the romantic comedy Maid in Manhattan, Lopez plays the role of hotel maid and single mother, Marisa Ventura, who falls in love with a high-profile politician. Lopez co-stars alongside Ralph Fiennes in the film, which proved to be a box office hit upon release in 2002.

The Mother (2023)

Image: ©Netflix

In action movie, The Mother, Lopez plays an assassin who comes out of hiding to protect the daughter she gave up. In the film, Lopez’s ‘The Mother’ is forced to put her child up for adoption to protect her, but when the child’s life is threatened she is prompted into action.

Lopez stars alongside Lucy Paez, Omari Hardwick, Joseph Fiennes, and Gael García Bernal. Niki Caro directs.

Unstoppable (2024)

Image: ©Amazon/MGM Studios

And finally, in the biographical sports drama, Unstoppable, Lopez plays the role of Judy Robles – mother to future wrestling champion, Anthony Robles. The film follows the young sports stars life as he overcomes significant adversity, with Lopez providing excellent support.

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Recap

Image: ©Amazon Studios/Lionsgate

So, those are the twelve best Jennifer Lopez movies. Now, to save you the hassle of having to scroll back up, here are the titles of all the movies in one handy list:

  • Selena (1997)
  • Out of Sight (1998)
  • Hustlers (2019)
  • Marry Me (2022)
  • The Cell (2000)
  • Shotgun Wedding (2022)
  • Halftime (2022)
  • Enough (2002)
  • Bordertown (2007)
  • Maid in Manhattan (2002)
  • The Mother (2023)
  • Unstoppable (2024)

Thank you for taking the time to read this post about Jennifer Lopez movies on It’s A Stampede!. For more posts, check out the recommended reads below.

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