The discussion of action stars’ acting abilities in another thread got me thinking: who are the actor and actress with the biggest combination of (generally accepted) good looks and actual talent? Brad Pitt, for example, is widely drooled over, and many say that he’s quite good as an actor as well. If you think Halle Berry’s Best Actress award is justified, then you might make a similar case for her.
So whaddya all think? 
I think you’ve named them both in your OP. But you’re asking about not one, but two very subjective things: looks and acting talent. Hardly anyone who is even a medium-level star in Hollywood is of below-average looks. And a person without great talent can have a spectaculary profitable and successful career if they just choose the right roles. (Arnold Schwarzenegger is the classic example).
Nicole Kidman, perhaps.
Johnny Depp is a fascinating actor to watch
Jennifer Connelly!
Catherine Zeta Jones
Michelle Pfeiffer
And a couple that I’m sure many would disagree with on either looks or talent:
Gwyneth Paltrow and Amanda Peet. Both are very distinctive looking and beautiful and very talented.
Probably have to be Jodie Foster.
But, a number of very “hot” actresses have proven they have talent given the right material;
Jennifer Aniston in The Good Girl
Halle Berry in Monsters Ball
Jennifer Connely in Requiem for a Dream
Russell Crowe - is a very good actor, easy on the eyes and ears and HOT.
Leonardo Dicaprio certainly has the acting ability.
I’d also second Johnny Depp.
Julianne Moore
Agreed on Michele Pfeiffer (I think she is underrated as an actress)
I think Bridget Fonda is an underrated actress as well, and was (still is?) quite a hottie.
I don’t think Marilyn Monroe gets enough acting credit. It takes a lot to act that dumb.seriously
Brittany Snow! Not only is she drop-dead gorgeous, she’s a great actress. I bet she’s a multi-Oscar winner by 2010.
Ewan McGregor hands down.
It has to be John Cusack. What critic doesn’t love him? And, he is incredibly good-looking.
Elijah Wood, Leonardo DiCaprio, John Cusak
Another vote for Jennifer Connelly and also Diane Lane.
Naomi Watts.
Winona Ryder. And Drew Barrymore.
Sharon Stone in Casino.