Before They Were Stars: 5 Little-Known Debut Movies of Hollywood's Biggest Names
These projects marked the beginning of their path to fame.
Every Hollywood star was once a rookie – before their names sparkled on posters for the highest-grossing blockbusters and millions of viewers recognized them from the first frame, these actors took their first tentative steps into film.
Sometimes these were bit parts in low-budget horror movies or quirky independent dramas that have since been forgotten.
1. 'New York Stories', 1989
Actor: Kirsten Dunst
IMDb Score: 6.4/10
Three iconic directors – Martin Scorsese, Francis Ford Coppola, and Woody Allen – created three stories, all of which are set in New York City.
The first story is about an artist trying to mend his relationship with his muse and lover. The second story tells about a girl who is forced to grow up quickly while living far from her parents. And the third story is about a neurotic man who has serious problems with his mother.
Many viewers believe Kirsten Dunst made her debut in the drama Interview with the Vampire, but the actress's screen debut was earlier. At age six, she played a supporting role in Woody Allen's novella Oedipus Wrecks.
2. 'Curly Sue', 1991
Actor: Steve Carell
IMDb Score: 5.9/10
Bill Dancer, a tramp, and his nine-year-old daughter, Susan, nicknamed Curly Sue, live on the streets and make a living through petty scams. Their lives change dramatically when they meet Grey Ellison, a lawyer who invites them to live in her luxurious mansion.
Curly Sue was the final directorial project of the legendary John Hughes. The movie also marked the screen debut of Steve Carell, who, at the time, was moonlighting as a mailman and DJ and hadn't yet fully considered an acting career.
3. 'The Impossible', 2012
Actor: Tom Holland
IMDb Score: 7.5/10
The Bennett family plans to spend Christmas at a resort in Thailand. However, their idyll is shattered by a powerful tsunami.
Director Juan Antonio Bayona based this heartfelt family drama about survival on the true events of December 26, 2004.
Ewan McGregor and Naomi Watts play the Bennetts, and young Tom Holland makes his debut as their eldest son.
4. 'Critters 3', 1991
Actor: Leonardo DiCaprio
IMDb Score: 4.5/10
The Critters may look cute, but they are incredibly dangerous alien monsters. They move to Los Angeles and terrorize the residents of an apartment building – the residents try to resist the aliens.
This is the third movie in the franchise, telling the story of the confrontation between ordinary people and furry alien invaders. The project launched Leonardo DiCaprio's career – the young actor played the supporting role of Josh.
5. 'Jamon Jamon', 1992
Actor: Penélope Cruz
IMDb Score: 6.4/10
Young Silvia becomes pregnant by the son of a lingerie factory owner. Her future mother-in-law is not pleased by this development. The enterprising woman hires the handsome Raúl to seduce Silvia but ends up falling in love with him herself.
Penélope Cruz made her acting debut in the comedy-drama directed by cult director Bigas Luna. The future star played the naive but seductive Silvia – she was only 16 years old at the time.
