Diego Luna was practically born into the world of acting, with both of his parents deeply rooted in the theatrical arts. From a young age, Diego Luna became a familiar face on Mexican television, rising to fame as a soap opera star in his home country. Over time, Diego Luna’s talent began to capture international attention, especially when he and his close friend Gael García Bernal lit up the screen with their undeniable chemistry in the provocative coming-of-age film Y tu mamá también (And Your Mother Too) back in 2001. That role truly put Diego Luna on the global map.
Despite early promise, some of Diego Luna’s later ventures into big-budget Hollywood films didn’t quite hit the mark. For instance, his leading role in Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights (2004), which drew inspiration from Patrick Swayze’s iconic performance, received lukewarm responses. As a result, Diego Luna shifted gears, opting for more nuanced and artistically ambitious projects. One notable example was his portrayal of a Michael Jackson impersonator in Harmony Korine’s surreal and thought-provoking Mister Lonely (2007)—a film that, while challenging, showcased Diego Luna’s range and willingness to take creative risks.
Back in Mexico, Diego Luna continued to enjoy major success. His performances in homegrown hits like the intense mob thriller Nicotina (2003) proved his enduring popularity. Then came Rudo y Cursi (Rude and Tacky) in 2008, a delightful comedy reuniting him with Gael García Bernal—once again demonstrating the magic that happens when Diego Luna shares the screen with his longtime friend. Even though his brief but flashy appearance in the Oscar-winning Milk (2008) earned mixed reviews, Diego Luna wasn’t deterred.
Instead, he began expanding his horizons behind the camera. He made a strong directorial debut with the heartfelt dramedy Abel (2010), followed by the biographical film Cesar Chávez (2014), further cementing his reputation as a multifaceted talent. While Diego Luna may not have reached the same level of mainstream celebrity in the U.S. as some of his peers—particularly compared to Bernal—he consistently stayed active, balancing roles in front of the lens with projects behind it.
Then came a major turning point: Diego Luna’s starring role in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016). This blockbuster not only brought him widespread recognition but also significantly elevated his international profile. Through every phase of his career, Diego Luna has remained a compelling presence in cinema—whether as an actor, director, or storyteller—and his journey continues to inspire audiences around the world.
When it comes to Diego Luna’s career highlights, one film that really stands out is I Stay with You from 2014—it’s widely regarded as Diego Luna’s highest rated movie. Over the years, fans and critics alike have praised his performance in this heartfelt project, making it a personal favorite among many who follow Diego Luna’s work. On the other hand, not every project has received the same level of acclaim. For instance, Flatliners (2017) tends to come up as Diego Luna’s lowest rated film, often mentioned in contrast when discussing the ups and downs of his filmography. Still, even in less successful roles, Diego Luna brings a level of dedication that keeps audiences interested. Overall, Diego Luna continues to be a compelling figure in cinema, with a range that spans both critically acclaimed works and more forgettable entries.