20 years ago, Penélope Cruz and Salma Hayek made a buddy action-comedy no one saw

Twenty years ago, Penélope Cruz and Salma Hayek starred in the buddy action-comedy Bandidas, a film that received little attention and only made around half its $35 million budget at the box office. With international co-stars, Bandidas stands apart from the typical Hollywood trend of pairing men in action movies. Set in 1880s Mexico, the film features two women from different backgrounds who form an odd couple and team up to fight against an American robber baron.

Despite some dated sexual elements and a male producer with a history of misconduct, the film's charm comes from the chemistry between Cruz and Hayek, who play their roles with great comedic timing. The real-life friendship between the actresses is evident in their on-screen dynamic, making Bandidas feel fresh and unique compared to other action movies.