Transforming oneself for playing an iconic real-life character is not an easy task. From sportspersons to politicians to artists, musicians and scientists, actors have undergone transformation for biopics in such a way, that they end-up becoming a mirror-image of the legend they play on screen. Here are six actresses who transformed themselves to play famous women.
Natalie Portman will play Jackie Kennedy in JACKIE
Natalie Portman as Jackie Kennedy: Natalie Portman channels her elegance, intelligence, impeccable acting skills and fragility as she plays the First Lady Jackie Kennedy in the upcoming biopic. The actress looks stunning in the trailer and might very well be on her way to earning her second Academy Award.
Salma Hayek played Frida Kahlo in FRIDA
Salma Hayek as Frida Kahlo: In Frida Kahlo’s biopic, Salma Hayek transforms herself completely into the Mexican painter, and aged 30 years on screen, turning from the feisty schoolgirl to Diego Rivera’s wife. Hayek had an uncanny resemblance to Kahlo with the same hairstyle, accent and thick unibrows.
Marion Cotillard played Edith Piaf in LA VIE EN ROSE
Marion Cotillard as Edith Piaf: Cotillard mutilated her body to turn into the legendary French singer Edith Piaf. The biopic showed Piaf’s life from childhood till her death, making the job more difficult for the French actress, but she not only got the look right, she also perfectly acted out Piaf’s erratic behaviour.
Helen Mirren played Queen Elizabeth II in THE QUEEN
Helen Mirren as Queen Elizabeth II: Even the people of UK would not have been able to make out the difference between the impeccable character played by Helen Mirren and the Queen herself. The portrayal of of Queen Elizabeth II earned Mirren an Academy Award that year.
Meryl Streep played Julia Child in JULIE AND JULIA
Meryl Streep as Julia Child: She is one of the finest actresses in Hollywood, and has played many famous women, including the Iron Lady Margaret Thatcher. But it was her role as the iconic cook Julia Child that earned her immense praise as she completely transformed into the spirited, carefree and hardworking woman.
Helena Bonham Carter played Elizabeth Taylor in BURTON AND TAYLOR
Helena Bonham Carter as Elizabeth Taylor: Helena Bonham Carter, best known for playing the roles of damaged women on screen, perfectly brought out her elegant side as she played the larger-than-life role of ElizabethTaylor. She won rave reviews for portraying the screen goddess perfectly.
