Jennifer Lopez is one of those entertainers we can definitely call a superstar. Taking a look at some of the projects she’s been a part of over the decades and the picture of her cultural reach snaps into place across genres and mediums: 2019’s “Hustlers,” rom-coms like “Marry Me” and “Shotgun Wedding” (2022), the intimate action-thriller “The Mother” (2023), a self-funded project about her life journey titled “This is Me … Now” (2024). While all of these you might say, “meh,” one movie stands out as her art detour: “The Cell.”

Jennifer Lopez’s 2000 film, “The Cell,” directed by Tarsem Singh, is a psychological thriller that takes a walk into the human mind in a way few films have. Lopez plays Catherine Deane, a child psychologist who uses experimental technology to enter the minds of her patients.

Her work takes a dark turn when she is asked to enter the mind of a comatose serial killer in order to find his latest victim before it’s too late.

The film begins with Catherine Deane working on a groundbreaking project that allows her to enter the minds of her patients. This experimental technology is aimed at helping children who are in comas or experiencing severe psychological trauma.

The story takes a dramatic turn when FBI agent Peter Novak, played by Vince Vaughn, approaches Catherine with an urgent request. They have captured a serial killer named Carl Stargher, played by Vincent D’Onofrio, who has lapsed into a coma. Carl’s latest victim is still alive, but time is running out to find her. Catherine must enter Carl’s mind to discover the location of the victim before it’s too late.

In “The Cell,” Jennifer Lopez showcases her acting chops in a way that defies the typical roles she has been associated with. As Catherine Deane, Lopez embodies a character who is empathetic and strong-willed. She displays a calm demeanor that belies the urgency of her mission. Her portrayal of Catherine’s is a stark contrast to the glamorous and often superficial roles that have dominated her filmography.

beyond a standard psychological thriller is Lopez’s ability to convey the emotional gravity of Catherine’s journey through the disturbing landscapes. This role demanded a level of emotional stability that Lopez delivers with finesse, proving that she was once capable of tackling, and if given the right project now, more challenging and unconventional roles.

“The Cell” is visually stunning. The film is a feast for the eyes, blending surreal imagery with nightmarish landscapes. Singh, known for his background in music videos and commercials, brings a unique abstract and visual flair to the film. The scenes inside Carl’s mind are crafted with meticulous attention to detail. These sequences are disturbing, perfectly capturing the twisted psyche of a serial killer.

The film’s cinematography, art direction, and costume design work in harmony to create an abstract and stunning experience. Each scene inside the mind is a carefully constructed to reflect the inner workings of Carl’s disturbed mind. From the eerie and desolate wastelands to the ornate and grotesque chambers, the visuals are a reflection of the dark and surreal themes of the film.

“The Cell” is not just a visual spectacle; it also delves into profound psychological themes. The film explores the concept of the human mind as a labyrinthine space where memories, fears, and desires intermingle. Catherine’s journey through Carl’s mind serves as a metaphor for the exploration of the human psyche where it questions the nature of evil, the impact of trauma, and the possibility of redemption.

Through Catherine’s exploration of Carl mind, the audience gains insight into his traumatic past and the events that shaped him into a killer. This adds a layer of empathy to the character, challenging the audience to consider the factors that contribute to monstrous behavior.

One of the reasons “The Cell” stands out in Jennifer Lopez’s filmography is it does not conform to the traditional expectations of a psychological thriller, instead opting for a more experimental and artistic approach. In a career filled with commercial misses, the movie brought out a side of Lopez we rarely see in many of her movies.

The Cell is a résumé of Jennifer Lopez’s talent and her willingness to push the boundaries of her own capabilities, reminding us that she can actually act. As the world continues to have mixed feeling about her performance, it’s worth revisiting “The Cell” to appreciate the quality of acting she brings to this role.