The 10 Most Underrated Catherine Zeta Jones Movies, Ranked (From Least to Most Underrated)

Catherine Zeta-Jones is a versatile actress who excels in many genres, from action-adventure and suspense to musicals and deeply personal stories. She’s known for creating memorable characters with careful attention to detail and perfect comedic timing. While she’s had many popular films, her work also includes a variety of other projects – historical dramas, heist movies, and stories focused on complex characters.

As a movie lover, I’ve put together a list of ten films starring Catherine Zeta-Jones. For each one, I’ll give you a quick rundown of the plot, who directed it, and what her role is. I’ve included both movies where she’s the lead and those with significant supporting parts, plus details about the directors and her co-stars, so you can decide which ones you might want to check out.

‘Death Defying Acts’ (2007)

The movie tells the story of Harry Houdini’s attempt to reach his deceased mother, a quest that attracts a Scottish stage medium and her daughter. Directed by Gillian Armstrong, this historical drama combines the world of theater, the pain of loss, and trickery, all set against the lively atmosphere of music hall shows.

Catherine Zeta-Jones stars as Mary McGarvie, a talented performer who uses her instincts and stage presence while assisting Houdini with his dangerous challenges. The film focuses on the relationship between Mary and Houdini, played by Guy Pearce, and how their choices are affected by the pressures of fame, wealth, and what they believe in.

‘Intolerable Cruelty’ (2003)

The Coen brothers direct a funny and fast-paced legal comedy about a successful divorce lawyer whose seemingly perfect prenuptial agreement is challenged. The story unfolds in workplaces, courtrooms, and wealthy people’s homes, filled with tricky contracts and surprising betrayals.

Catherine Zeta-Jones plays Marilyn Rexroth, a clever strategist who knows how to use influence and opportunity in a society focused on appearances and deals. Her interactions with Miles Massey, played by George Clooney, highlight how both characters approach marriage as a power play, transforming romantic moments into strategic battles.

‘No Reservations’ (2007)

This film, based on a German movie, centers around a highly organized chef whose life is turned upside down when she unexpectedly becomes responsible for her young niece. The arrival of a relaxed and easygoing sous chef shakes things up in the kitchen, encouraging a more collaborative environment and helping her embrace family and teamwork.

Catherine Zeta-Jones plays Kate Armstrong, the calm and efficient leader of a bustling kitchen. The show explores how she juggles teaching a young cook, managing the demands of her job, and her personal life, all while trying to keep everything running smoothly during hectic dinner service. We see how recipes, routines, and duties change as work and family life intertwine, particularly in scenes with Abigail Breslin and Aaron Eckhart.

‘Ocean’s Twelve’ (2004)

In the second film, the team heads to Europe when a rich client seeks revenge, launching them into a series of complex heists in cities like Amsterdam, Rome, and Paris. Director Steven Soderbergh keeps the story fast-paced with twists, art robberies, and a challenging competition against a skilled thief called the Night Fox.

Catherine Zeta-Jones plays Isabel Lahiri, a Europol investigator who has a past connection with Rusty Ryan, played by Brad Pitt. Her investigation focuses on the major robberies and introduces a police procedural element that runs alongside the crew’s schemes, including their planning, spying, and use of deception.

‘The Mask of Zorro’ (1998)

In Alta California, a new Zorro is mentored by the original masked hero to thwart a scheme centered around gold, land, and vengeance. Director Martin Campbell delivers thrilling action sequences – including sword fights, horse chases, and duels – using carefully planned choreography and real-life stunts.

Catherine Zeta-Jones plays Elena, a character whose history is closely tied to the legend of Zorro and the villain’s plans. Her scenes with Antonio Banderas and Anthony Hopkins feature a mix of romance, clever dialogue, and exciting sword fights, including a memorable dance sequence and training sessions.

‘Side Effects’ (2013)

This suspenseful psychological thriller centers on a psychiatrist and his patient, whose treatment takes a surprising turn after a new medication is prescribed. Director Steven Soderbergh unfolds the story through a combination of therapy sessions, glimpses into the world of pharmaceutical marketing, and courtroom drama, all of which raise questions about everyone’s true intentions and trustworthiness.

Catherine Zeta-Jones stars as Dr. Victoria Siebert, a doctor whose work and previous patients are key to solving the central mystery. The story puts her alongside Rooney Mara and Jude Law, with medical records, legal tactics, and questions of right and wrong shaping the plot at every step.

‘Chicago’ (2002)

This musical follows two aspiring vaudeville performers whose murder cases unexpectedly make them famous. The story unfolds through musical numbers that resemble both their stage performances and the sensationalized media coverage of their trials. Director Rob Marshall brings the stage production to life with a distinctive style, featuring elaborate choreography, dynamic editing, and a cabaret-like presentation.

Catherine Zeta-Jones plays Velma Kelly, powerfully portraying a character driven by ambition and a talent for using the media. Her singing and dancing are matched by the show’s impressive visuals and strong supporting cast, and the film was a major award winner, including an Academy Award for Zeta-Jones as Best Supporting Actress.

‘The Terminal’ (2004)

A traveler finds himself stuck in an airport after his home country undergoes unexpected changes, and he’s forced to live there while dealing with official documents. Director Steven Spielberg creates a self-contained world within the airport, highlighting the daily routines, friendships, and clever ways people adapt to the situation.

Catherine Zeta-Jones plays Amelia Warren, a flight attendant who crosses paths with the main character while he’s living in the airport terminal. Their interactions show how people connect during short encounters and travel delays, bringing a heartwarming element to a story focused on regulations, boundaries, and waiting.

‘High Fidelity’ (2000)

The film follows a record store owner as he reflects on old relationships while meticulously organizing his life – and his music collection – into lists. Director Stephen Frears uses the vibrant world of vinyl records, live music, and everyday customer interactions to create a relatable backdrop for this personal journey of self-reflection.

Catherine Zeta-Jones portrays Charlie Nicholson, a former partner who is both charming and popular, as seen through the eyes of the main character. The movie explores how past relationships influence our memories of breakups, particularly how ideas of style, social standing, and fond memories affect the way we remember things.

‘Traffic’ (2000)

The story weaves together the experiences of police, politicians, drug traffickers, and families living on both sides of the border, showing how efforts to stop the drug trade often clash. Director Steven Soderbergh uses different colors and visual styles to clearly distinguish between locations and storylines as the plot jumps between investigations and political choices.

Catherine Zeta-Jones portrays Helena Ayala, a woman whose world is turned upside down when a significant arrest forces her to navigate a dangerous new landscape of drug suppliers and competing cartels. The story follows how her path crosses with both federal investigations and the inner workings of the cartel, revealing how the flow of money, security concerns, and legal threats impact the decisions of everyone involved.

Share your picks and the hidden gems you think belong on this list in the comments.

2025-09-23 00:14