Javier Bardem on Playing Pablo Escobar With Penelope Cruz in ‘Loving Pablo’

In the 2017 film Loving Pablo, Javier Bardem took on the formidable role of Pablo Escobar, the notorious Colombian drug lord. Directed by Fernando León de Aranoa, the film offers a personal look into Escobar's life through the eyes of Virginia Vallejo, portrayed by Bardem's wife, Penélope Cruz. Their on-screen chemistry added depth to the portrayal of a complex and dangerous figure.

Immersing into the Role

Bardem's approach to portraying Escobar was rooted in understanding the humanity behind the villain. He emphasized that Escobar was not an icon or a myth but a man who existed and caused real harm. Bardem noted, "I wanted to bring who I thought was the real Escobar... We helped to create him, as we helped to create many others like him" .

To embody Escobar physically, Bardem gained weight to match the drug lord's fluctuating size over the years. He remarked on the challenge, stating, "As I was gaining the weight, we were working around to do different weights, until I finally gained the weight that he needs for the end of the movie" .

The Emotional Toll

Filming certain scenes took an emotional toll on both Bardem and Cruz. Cruz admitted that after shooting a particularly intense scene, she began counting the days until the end of the shoot, indicating the profound impact it had on her . Bardem also found the experience challenging, especially a pivotal scene filmed early in the production, which he described as "very intense" .

Drawing Parallels

In preparing for the role, Bardem drew an analogy between Escobar and his favorite animal, the hippopotamus. He described the animal as "quiet, funny-looking, but the most dangerous one in Africa," likening it to Escobar's deceptive nature .

A Shared Experience

Working alongside his wife added a unique dynamic to the film. Bardem expressed that their deep trust and understanding enhanced their performances, making the collaboration both challenging and rewarding .

Penelope Cruz oozes glamour in a sequined ombre gown with a racy thigh high split at Murder On The Orient Express premiere in London

At the world premiere of Murder on the Orient Express in London, held at the Royal Albert Hall on November 2, 2017, Penélope Cruz captivated the audience with her stunning appearance. The Spanish actress, known for her timeless beauty and elegance, chose a dress that perfectly complemented the film's opulent setting.

The Dress: A Temperley London Masterpiece

Cruz donned a black sequined gown from Temperley London's Resort 2018 collection. The dress featured intricate embellishments that shimmered under the lights, creating a mesmerizing effect. Its design was both classic and contemporary, reflecting the film's blend of vintage glamour and modern storytelling.

A Thigh-High Split for Added Drama

Adding a touch of daring sophistication, the gown included a thigh-high split that allowed Cruz to showcase her Jimmy Choo 'Pearl' sandals. The slit not only highlighted her graceful posture but also added a modern twist to the otherwise classic ensemble.

Complementary Accessories

To enhance her look, Cruz accessorized with Atelier Swarovski jewelry from their Fine Jewelry Collection. The pieces added just the right amount of sparkle, complementing the gown's sequined details without overpowering them. Her long, flowing waves completed the look, embodying the epitome of red carpet glamour.

A Night to Remember

The premiere was a star-studded event, with Cruz joining fellow cast members such as Michelle Pfeiffer, Daisy Ridley, and Johnny Depp. The evening was filled with excitement and anticipation, as the cast celebrated the culmination of their hard work on the film.

Penélope Cruz's choice of attire for the Murder on the Orient Express premiere was a testament to her impeccable fashion sense and ability to blend classic elegance with modern flair. Her appearance undoubtedly added to the allure and excitement of the evening, making it a night to remember in the world of cinema and fashion.

Penélope Cruz Reveals How She Stays Lean and Sexy at 50

Penélope Cruz has captivated audiences worldwide for over two decades with her magnetic screen presence, effortless glamour, and timeless beauty. Now at 50, the Spanish star continues to turn heads — not just for her iconic performances, but for her lean, toned physique and radiant health. So how does she do it? Her secret isn’t crash dieting or grueling workouts, but rather a holistic, sustainable approach to wellness that balances discipline with enjoyment.

Here’s how Penélope Cruz stays fit, healthy, and sexy — inside and out.

1. Clean Eating With a Mediterranean Twist

Cruz sticks to a primarily organic and nutrient-rich diet that reflects her Spanish roots. Her meals are based on fresh vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of water. She has previously followed the gluten-free and sugar-free diet promoted by nutritionist Dr. Nicholas Perricone, especially after giving birth to her children.

Foods she avoids:

Dairy (except occasional cheese)

Processed sugar

Refined carbs

Gluten

Foods she loves:

Olive oil (a staple in her Mediterranean heritage)

Organic vegetables and fruits

Wild-caught fish and free-range meat

Herbal teas

She’s not militant about her diet, though — Cruz has said she loves food and doesn't believe in constant restriction. Her philosophy: Eat clean most of the time, and enjoy life in moderation.

2. Yoga, Dance, and Movement Over Machines

Cruz isn’t a gym rat — instead, she prefers workouts that keep her connected to her body and mind. She trained in classical ballet for 9 years, and though she no longer dances professionally, she still credits ballet with shaping her physique and posture.

Her favorite ways to stay active:

Bikram yoga (hot yoga) — builds flexibility, strength, and helps detox

Dancing — a fun, liberating way to stay lean and mentally energized

Pilates and stretching — to maintain core strength and flexibility

Walking — especially when she’s in her native Spain or on set

What matters most to Cruz is consistency — and doing activities she enjoys, rather than punishing her body.

3. Mental Wellness Is Key

Penélope Cruz is a strong advocate for mental health and emotional balance. She meditates regularly, practices Transcendental Meditation, and prioritizes quiet moments to reconnect with herself.

In her words: “We all need space to breathe, to feel ourselves.” Stress, she believes, is one of the most damaging things for both your body and your appearance — and staying grounded emotionally is just as important as staying active.

4. Skincare and Sleep as Non-Negotiables

A good night’s sleep and a committed skincare regimen play a big role in how Cruz maintains her glow. She avoids late nights, drinks lots of water, and treats her skin to quality products like Lancôme’s Génifique Serum and face masks — especially when traveling or before a red carpet appearance.

She’s also a fan of dry brushing and lymphatic drainage to reduce bloating and keep her skin looking tight and healthy.

5. Living a Balanced Life

Ultimately, Cruz’s lean, sexy figure is the result of balance. She’s a mother, a wife, and a global star — and she doesn’t believe in sacrificing joy for vanity. She embraces her body as it changes and credits motherhood with giving her a new sense of purpose and strength.

She once said: “I’ve always been into health, but I don’t obsess. I listen to my body and enjoy my life.”

Penélope Cruz proves that staying lean and sexy at any age isn’t about extremes — it’s about nurturing your body, feeding your soul, and choosing movement that makes you feel alive. Her lifestyle is a blend of discipline, joy, and self-respect — and it’s a reminder that lasting beauty starts from the inside.