When you think of iconic moments in cinematic history, one name that often comes to mind is Ursula Andress. It was really her first major film role that solidified her status in pop culture, especially when audiences saw the athletic blonde beauty emerge from the Caribbean waves—a scene that became legendary almost overnight. That moment, of course, happened in Dr. No (1962), the very first James Bond movie, and it instantly catapulted Ursula Andress into the global spotlight. After such a breakout performance, Hollywood quickly cast Ursula Andress in lighter, more glamorous roles—films like 4 for Texas (1962) alongside Frank Sinatra and Fun in Acapulco (1962) opposite Elvis Presley—showcasing her charm as much as her looks.
As her fame grew, so did the demand for Ursula Andress in visually striking, high-profile projects. Studios were eager to highlight her reputation as one of the most beautiful women in the world, which led to roles in films like Hammer Studios’ She (1965), the stylish Italian sci-fi thriller The Tenth Victim (1966), and the dramatic World War I aviation tale The Blue Max (1966). Each of these roles leaned into the allure and mystique that surrounded Ursula Andress at the time.
Over the years, though, she began to appear less frequently on screen. Still, fans of Ursula Andress weren’t completely left without glimpses of their favorite icon. She made occasional returns, such as in the acclaimed miniseries Peter the Great (1986) and later in the experimental art film Cremaster 5 (1997), reminding audiences why Ursula Andress had remained such a lasting figure in film and fashion. Even with fewer roles, the legacy of Ursula Andress continued to shine—proof that true stardom never really fades.
When it comes to Ursula Andress’s film career, fans and critics often look at her most acclaimed work, and that title goes to The Blue Max from 1966—definitely one of the standout entries in Ursula Andress’s filmography. It earned strong reviews and remains a high point in the body of work associated with Ursula Andress. On the other end of the spectrum, one of her less favorably received projects is Four for Texas, released back in 1963. While Ursula Andress brought her signature charm to the role, the film didn’t resonate as well with audiences or critics. So, if you’re exploring the range of performances by Ursula Andress, these two titles mark the highs and lows in terms of critical reception.