
Maria Menado
ActingAbout Maria Menado
Maria Menado (born Liesbet Dotulong; 2 February 1932), also known as Liesje Mandagi, is an Indonesian-born Malay actress, model, and producer. She was known for her contributions to Malaysian cinema in the 1950s and 1960s. At the height of her fame she was voted “Malaya’s Most Beautiful” by Times Magazine and the “Best Dressed Woman in South East Asia” by publisher United Press International. In addition to acting, she also sang and went on to direct and produce films under her own production company, Maria Menado Productions. Menado is Minahasan and was born in Manado, Dutch East Indies (present Indonesia)
Career Statistics & Market Influence
Analyzing the cinematic journey of Maria Menado reveals a career defined by diverse artistic exploration. With a total of 20 major appearances, the actor has established a significant footprint in global cinema.
Genre Dominance: Drama
The majority of Maria Menado's filmography leans towards the Drama genre. Audience data suggests that viewers respond most favorably to this persona, though their versatility has allowed for successful crossovers into other categories.
The "Box Office" Signature
With a 5% Success Ratio (movies rated above 6.5), Maria Menado remains a reliable draw for studios. Their peak performance was recorded in Tun Fatimah, which continues to be the benchmark for their career rating-wise.
Best Maria Menado Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Maria Menado's career based on audience ratings.
Complete Filmography & Success Status
Tracking the career evolution and box office verdicts of Maria Menado.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Singapore Cinema: Between Takes | Self (archive footage) | Flop | Similar → |
| 1963 | The Pontianak Returns | - | Flop | Similar → |
| 1963 | Raja Bersiong | Chomel | Flop | Similar → |
| 1963 | Darah Ku | - | Flop | Similar → |
| 1963 | Bunga Tanjong | Noraini | Flop | Similar → |
| 1962 | Tun Fatimah | - | Hit | Similar → |
| 1962 | Siti Zubaidah | Siti Zubaidah | Flop | Similar → |
| 1961 | Sultan Mahmood Mangkat Di-Julang | Wan Anum | Flop | Similar → |
| 1960 | Singapore | Maria | Average | Similar → |
| 1959 | Mata Hari | Mata Hari | Flop | Similar → |
| 1959 | Habis Gelap Terbitlah Terang (Hilang Gelap Datang Terang) | Rohana | Flop | Similar → |
| 1959 | Victim of Slander | Rahimah | Flop | Similar → |
| 1958 | Son of the Vampire | - | Flop | Similar → |
| 1958 | Sumpah Pontianak | Chomel | Flop | Similar → |
| 1957 | Revenge of Pontianak | - | Flop | Similar → |
| 1957 | Woman Vampire | - | Flop | Similar → |
| 1952 | Tas Tangan Wanita | - | Flop | Similar → |
| 1952 | Jewel in the Slum | Fatimah | Flop | Similar → |
| 1951 | Life | Halima | Flop | Similar → |
| 1951 | Pulau Mutiara | - | Flop | Similar → |
Maria Menado - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Maria Menado?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Maria Menado is "Tun Fatimah" with a rating of 7.0/10.
How many movies has Maria Menado acted in?
Maria Menado has been featured in at least 20 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Maria Menado?
Other notable films include "Singapore", "Victim of Slander", and "Son of the Vampire".




