In the thrilling and surreal world of "Mulholland Drive," we are introduced to Betty Elms, a bright and ambitious blonde who has just landed in Hollywood, chasing her dreams of stardom. With Hollywood's glimmering lights and vibrant atmosphere as her backdrop, Betty's enthusiasm and innocence are palpable as she begins to navigate the complexities of the entertainment industry. However, her journey takes an unexpected turn when she encounters a mysterious brunette who suffers from amnesia, igniting a profound sense of curiosity and intrigue. Together, they embark on a suspenseful quest to unravel the secrets of the brunette's identity, leading them down a rabbit hole of dreams, desires, and dark realities that lurk beneath the surface of Tinseltown's allure.
As the narrative unfolds, we are introduced to Adam Kesher, an ambitious filmmaker facing a precarious crossroads in his career. Adam's journey intertwines with Betty and the amnesiac woman as he grapples with increasing pressure and unanticipated obstacles while trying to cast his latest project. His encounters hint at a shadowy web of control and manipulation within the Hollywood system, exposing him to forces that challenge both his artistic vision and personal integrity. The juxtaposition of Betty's naive ambition with Adam's turbulent journey creates a stark exploration of the price of fame and success in an unforgiving industry.
Ultimately, "Mulholland Drive" masterfully blends elements of mystery and psychological thriller, dissecting the dreams and nightmares that dance just beneath the glimmer of Hollywood’s surface. As Betty and the mysterious brunette delve deeper into the enigma surrounding her lost identity, the film invites viewers to question the nature of reality, illusion, and the oftentimes perilous pursuit of one's desires. The intertwining narratives of Betty and Adam not only serve as thrilling plot devices but also reflect the haunting realities and unfathomable complexities of life in the entertainment world.
Full Cast of Mulholland Drive
Naomi Watts
Betty Elms / Diane Selwyn
Naomi Watts delivered a tour de force performance in David Lynch's enigmatic masterpiece "Mulholland Drive," where she masterfully balances the dual roles of Betty Elms and Diane Selwyn. As the wide-eyed, aspiring actress Betty, Watts exudes an intoxicating blend of optimism and naivety, capturing the essence of a small-town girl chasing her Hollywood dreams with an infectious vivacity. Her transition to the jaded and tormented Diane is nothing short of transformative; Watts' portrayal of a woman consumed by unrequited love, jealousy, and the harsh realities of a dream turned nightmare is raw, harrowing, and heartbreakingly authentic. Her ability to convey the psychological disintegration of Diane with such depth and nuance adds a profound layer of complexity to the film's labyrinthine narrative. Watts' performance is a study in contrasts, as she seamlessly shifts from innocence to despair, showcasing her remarkable range and emotional intelligence, ensuring that her characters linger in the minds of viewers long after the credits roll.
Laura Harring
Rita / Camilla Rhodes
Laura Harring delivers a mesmerizing and enigmatic performance as Rita/Camilla Rhodes in David Lynch's psychological thriller "Mulholland Drive." As the sultry and amnesiac Rita, Harring brings a sense of vulnerability and allure that captivates the audience from her first appearance, when she survives a car accident on the eve of Hollywood success. Her transformation into the platinum blonde Camilla Rhodes reveals a darker, more complex persona, expertly navigating the treacherous waters of the film industry. Harring's ability to convey deep emotion with subtle gestures and her chemistry with co-star Naomi Watts are pivotal to the film's exploration of identity, dreams, and the harsh realities of show business. Her performance is a cornerstone of the film's enduring mystery, leaving viewers spellbound and questioning the nature of reality and fiction long after the credits roll.
Justin Theroux
Adam
Justin Theroux delivers a compelling and nuanced performance as Adam in David Lynch's enigmatic film "Mulholland Drive." Adam, a successful Hollywood director, is depicted with a balance of charm and vulnerability, as Theroux navigates the character's transition from a position of control to one of disillusionment. Initially presented as confident and in charge of his surroundings, Adam's world begins to unravel as the narrative progresses, revealing a man grappling with the darker undercurrents of the film industry and his own personal battles. Theroux's portrayal is pivotal in illustrating the blurred lines between reality and fantasy that are central to the film's themes. His performance anchors some of the film's most memorable scenes, including a confrontation in which his character is manipulated and undermined, showcasing Theroux's ability to convey complex emotions ranging from bewilderment to a profound sense of loss. His embodiment of Adam contributes to the film's labyrinthine exploration of identity, power, and desire, making Theroux's role a standout in this intricate Hollywood mystery.
Ann Miller
Coco
Ann Miller's portrayal of Coco in David Lynch's enigmatic neo-noir film "Mulholland Drive" is a memorable one, despite her limited screen time. As the landlady of the apartment complex where much of the film's intrigue unfolds, Miller brings a touch of Old Hollywood glamour and a dose of maternal warmth to her role. Her character, with her perpetually concerned expression and ever-present hearing aid, serves as a guardian angel of sorts to the protagonist, Betty (Naomi Watts), offering her advice and a comforting presence amidst the film's dark and surreal twists. Miller's performance is notable for its authenticity and the depth she brings to a role that could have easily been overshadowed by the film's more bizarre elements. Her scenes are imbued with a sense of nostalgia and a certain gravity that hints at the undercurrents of loss and longing permeating the narrative. Coco's interactions with Betty and Rita (Laura Harring) are pivotal, as they help to anchor the viewer in the film's shifting realities, and Miller's seasoned delivery ensures that Coco lingers in the memory long after the credits roll.
Mark Pellegrino
Joe
Mark Pellegrino delivers a compelling performance as Joe, the enigmatic figure at the heart of David Lynch's neo-noir psychological thriller "Mulholland Drive." Pellegrino's portrayal is a masterclass in subtlety and nuance, as he navigates the complex, dreamlike narrative with a sense of grounded intensity. His Joe is both charming and menacing, exuding an old Hollywood allure while masking a deeper, more sinister nature. Pellegrino's ability to convey the character's conflicted psyche, particularly in the diner scene where he recounts a chilling horror story that may or may not be a revelation of his own past, adds layers of intrigue to an already labyrinthine plot. His performance is a cornerstone of the film's haunting atmosphere, contributing to the lasting impact of "Mulholland Drive" as a cinematic enigma that continues to captivate and puzzle audiences.
Robert Forster
Detective McKnight
Robert Forster delivered a memorable performance as the seasoned Detective McKnight in David Lynch's enigmatic neo-noir masterpiece "Mulholland Drive." With his stoic demeanor and empathetic eyes, Forster brought a grounded presence to the surreal and often bewildering narrative. His portrayal of McKnight is one of quiet intensity, as he navigates the labyrinthine plot with a sense of genuine curiosity and concern. Forster's character serves as a guide to the audience, attempting to piece together the fragmented storylines with a methodical and thoughtful approach. His interactions with Naomi Watts's character, Betty, are particularly poignant, as he encourages her budding investigative instincts while grappling with the dark underbelly of Hollywood dreams. Forster's performance is a testament to his ability to convey complexity with subtle gestures and a voice that carries the weight of hard-earned wisdom, making Detective McKnight an indelible figure in the film's puzzle-like tapestry.
Dan Hedaya
Vincenzo Castigliane
Angelo Badalamenti
Luigi Castigliane
Patrick Fischler
Dan
Brent Briscoe
Detective Domgaard
Michael Cooke
Herb
Lee Grant
Louise
James Karen
Wally Brown
Chad Everett
Jimmy Katz
Melissa George
Camilla Rhodes
Scott Coffey
Wilkins
Richard Green
The Magician
Rebekah Del Rio
Rebekah Del Rio
Jeanne Bates
Irene
Lori Heuring
Lorraine
Marcus Graham
Mr. Darby
Bonnie Aarons
Bum
Michael J. Anderson
Mr. Roque
Geno Silva
Hotel Manager / Emcee
Billy Ray Cyrus
Gene
Vincent Castellanos
Ed
Wayne Grace
Bob Brooker
Rita Taggart
Linney James
Michele Hicks
Nicki
Lisa Lackey
Carol
Tad Horino
Taka
Missy Crider
Waitress at Winkie’s
Kate Forster
Martha Johnson
Tony Longo
Kenny
Michael Fairman
Jason
Rena Riffel
Laney
Katharine Towne
Cynthia
Michael Des Barres
Billy
Robert Katims
Ray Hott
David Schroeder
Robert Smith
Mo Gallini
Castigliane Limo Driver
Charles Croughwell
Vacuum Man
William Ostrander
2nd Assistant Director
Brian Beacock
Backup Singer #1
Blake Lindsley
Backup Singer #2
Johanna Stein
Woman in #12
Sean Everett
Cab Driver at LAX
Elina Madison
Starlet (uncredited)
Anthony D. Call
Billy Davis
Tim Matheson
Griff King
Mitch Vogel
Jamie Hunter
Dan Birnbaum
Irene's Companion
Joseph Kearney
Roque's Manservant
Enrique Buelna
Back of Head Man
Richard Mead
Hairy-Armed Man
Daniel Rey
Valet Attendant
Diane Nelson
Heavy-Set Woman
Michael D. Weatherred
Hank - Assistant Director
Adrien Curry
Backup Singer #3
Tyrah M. Lindsey
Backup Singer #4
Conte Candoli
Trumpet Player
Cori Glazer
Blue-Haired Lady
Lyssie Powell
Blond in Bed
Jehshua Barnes
Young Actor (uncredited)
Crew of Mulholland Drive
Full backstage crew list →