Top 5 Camila Mendes Movies That Prove She’s More Than Just Veronica Lodge
Camila Mendes has evolved from her breakout role as Veronica Lodge in “Riverdale” to become one of the most dynamic young talents in Hollywood. With every project, she continues to captivate audiences through her charm, confidence, and emotional range. In this article, we’ll dive into her top five movie performances that showcase her growing versatility and solidify her status as a rising film star.
5. The Perfect Date (2019)
Let’s begin with the Netflix rom-com that introduced Camila Mendes to a wider audience beyond Riverdale fans. In The Perfect Date, Mendes plays Shelby Pace, the stylish and intelligent love interest of Brooks Rattigan, played by Noah Centineo. Although her screen time is limited, Camila brings depth and charisma to her role, standing out in a movie centered around high school romance and social media-driven dating.
What makes her performance notable is how naturally she portrays confidence without arrogance. Shelby could’ve easily been a typical “mean girl,” but Mendes adds nuance that keeps the character grounded. As a result, she left a lasting impression and proved her potential as a future rom-com lead.
4. Do Revenge (2022)
In Do Revenge, Camila Mendes steps into the role of Drea Torres, a vengeful high school queen bee who teams up with another student to get even with those who wronged them. This dark comedy takes inspiration from classic teen dramas like Heathers and Cruel Intentions, but Mendes injects her performance with modern edge and emotional complexity.
Unlike traditional revenge flicks, this film explores themes of identity, betrayal, and forgiveness. Mendes delivers a layered performance, making the audience both sympathize with and question Drea’s decisions. As the film progresses, her growth as a character mirrors Mendes’s own evolution as an actress. Importantly, her chemistry with co-star Maya Hawke adds depth to the story, creating a compelling dynamic that fuels the entire plot.
3. Upgraded (2024)
Moving into 2024, Upgraded gives Camila Mendes a true spotlight as Ana Santos, a determined young woman chasing her dreams in the competitive art world. When Ana’s flight to London gets unexpectedly upgraded to first class, she seizes the opportunity to reinvent herself, leading to a whirlwind of misadventures, romance, and mistaken identities.
Mendes shines in this role. She effortlessly blends comedy and drama, giving Ana a relatable vulnerability while also portraying her ambition and resilience. The film’s clever script and stylish direction allow Mendes to explore her full range. Moreover, the role finally lets her take center stage as a leading lady in a film that balances heart and humor with a dash of fashion-forward fun.
2. Música (2024)
In Música, Camila Mendes stars alongside director and co-writer Rudy Mancuso in a visually inventive, coming-of-age romantic comedy. She plays Isabella, a grounded and supportive figure in the chaotic, rhythm-driven life of Rudy, a character with synesthesia. This neurological condition causes him to experience music in everything he sees—a creative premise that results in a unique storytelling experience.
Mendes brings authenticity to Isabella, offering a compelling counterpart to Rudy’s unpredictable energy. Her performance is subtle but impactful, showing how even a quiet presence can command attention. The film explores culture, identity, and love in a deeply personal way, and Camila Mendes plays a crucial role in anchoring the emotional narrative. Through this role, she shows her strength in ensemble casts and her ability to support and elevate unconventional stories.
1. Palm Springs (2020)
Finally, we reach Palm Springs, a critically acclaimed sci-fi romantic comedy that took everyone by surprise. Although Camila Mendes plays a supporting role as Tala, her presence adds to the ensemble’s charm. The movie centers on Nyles (Andy Samberg) and Sarah (Cristin Milioti), two wedding guests stuck in a time loop. Camila’s portrayal of Tala, the bride, may not be the focus, but she helps establish the emotional and chaotic tone that kicks off the entire narrative.
Despite limited screen time, Mendes brings a natural warmth and joy to her scenes. Her performance serves as a reminder that every role, big or small, contributes to the overall success of a film. Moreover, her appearance in such a well-received indie project shows that she’s not afraid to explore varied roles outside the mainstream.
Camila Mendes has clearly outgrown her image as just a TV teen queen. With every movie, she takes risks, explores new genres, and proves her versatility. Whether it’s romantic comedies, psychological dramas, or experimental art films, Mendes delivers. As her career continues to grow, it’s exciting to imagine what roles she’ll take on next.
If you’re a fan of young Hollywood talent or looking for movies that blend strong performances with engaging stories, these five films featuring Camila Mendes are must-watches. From charm to complexity, she brings it all—and we can’t wait to see what’s next.
