Courteney Cox left a lasting mark as the sharp-witted and stylish Monica Geller on the hit sitcom Friends, but her film work reveals another side of her screen presence. She stepped into the horror genre with memorable turns in Wes Craven’s Scream and its sequel, where her portrayal of Gale Weathers combined toughness and vulnerability, helping to redefine the slashers of the era. Cox also showed a knack for comedy in Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, playing Melissa Robinson opposite Jim Carrey’s eccentric pet detective, adding grounded charm to the zany comedy. Later, she ventured into family-friendly fare with Bedtime Stories, showcasing her ability to hold her own alongside Adam Sandler’s fantastical antics. Cox’s performances often balance sharp humor with emotional honesty, making her characters memorable beyond just the surface.