Before becoming a global star, Ana de Armas delivered a performance in Hands of Stone (2016) that revealed the depth of her acting talent.

The film, a biographical drama about legendary Panamanian boxer Roberto Durán, gave Ana the opportunity to play Felicidad Iglesias, Durán’s devoted wife and emotional anchor.

Though the film primarily centered on Durán’s turbulent career and his relationship with trainer Ray Arcel (played by Robert De Niro), Ana brought a layer of humanity and vulnerability that grounded the story.

Her portrayal of Felicidad showed the sacrifices, struggles, and strength of a woman standing behind a champion, navigating the chaos of fame while protecting her family.

For many viewers, Ana’s role became one of the film’s emotional highlights. She captured both tenderness and resilience, hinting at the star power she would later showcase in films like Knives Out and Blonde.

Even in a male-dominated narrative, her presence commanded attention, foreshadowing her rise as one of Hollywood’s most versatile actresses.