Antonio Banderas was already a famous Spanish star before making his Hollywood debut in 1992 as a young cuban musician in “The Mambo Kings.” Speaking little English, he learned his lines phonetically. He landed roles in “Philadelphia” and “Interview with a Vampire” which launched his heartthrob image. By 1995, Banderas-mania hit mainstream as he starred in three multi budget thrillers, “Assassins,” “Desperado” and “Never Talk to Strangers,” making him one of America’s most desirable and sexy men. Turning in a riveting performance in “Evita” and capturing the title role in “The Mask of Zorro,” Banderas is being billed as the next blockbuster star.