Alejandro Amenábar expressed unwavering certainty. Rachel Weisz, with her composed gaze and astute beauty, embodied the ideal choice for the role of Hypatia, an atheist philosopher in 4th-century Alexandria.
The judgment proved accurate, as her portrayal in "Ágora" captivated both the Spanish audience and the Film Academy, earning the British actress a Goya nomination for the best female performance.
Devoid of any formal training in a drama school, Rachel Weisz seamlessly evolved into one of the most sought-after actresses of the present moment. Her trajectory was apparent from a young age. At 14, an opportunity to work with Richard Gere presented itself, only to be vetoed by her father. Despite this initial setback, she took charge, unlocking subsequent doors to her destiny.
While pursuing English Literature at Cambridge, she founded the Talking Tongues company, delving into experimental theatre. Achieving success on the London stage and undertaking television roles paved the way for her cinematic debut, courtesy of Bernardo Bertolucci.
Her brief appearance in "Stolen Beauty" captivated Andrew Davis, leading to a significant role alongside Keanu Reeves in "Chain Reaction." This commercial success served as a cinematic triumph, propelling Rachel to stardom.
The pinnacle came with "The Mummy," directed by Stephen Sommers, a blockbuster that firmly established her in the echelons of Hollywood. Subsequent successes in films like "Enemy at the Gates" and "The Return of the Mummy" further solidified her celebrity.
In 2006, Fernando Mierelles' socially conscious film "The Constant Gardener" elevated Weisz to unprecedented heights. Her portrayal of Tessa, a defiant activist exposing pharmaceutical atrocities in Africa, earned her an Oscar, a Golden Globe, and a well-deserved BAFTA nomination.
The allure of success fails to blind Rachel; she consistently emphasizes her pursuit of only engaging in compelling projects. Even the opportunity for the third installment of "The Mummy" was declined in favor of more modest films like "Sunshine."
Amenábar's allure proved irresistible, leading her to partake in the most expensive blockbuster in Spanish cinema.
Yet, for now, Benicio del Toro stands alone as the sole international star to claim a Goya. Weisz, settling for a place on the nominee list, watches as Lola Dueñas secures the Goya for best leading actress in "Yo Too."
