Get ready for a fascinating journey through Hollywood's evolution! The impact of a single movie on the industry's leading men is a story worth telling.
Glen Powell, the charismatic actor known for his charming leading roles, credits a Marvel masterpiece with reshaping Hollywood's landscape. In an insightful interview with GQ, Powell reveals how Chris Pratt's portrayal of Star-Lord in "Guardians of the Galaxy" sparked a revolution, offering a refreshing take on leading men. "It's all about being upbeat and positive!" Powell exclaims, contrasting this with the era of brooding, dark characters.
But here's where it gets controversial... Powell traces this shift back to the early 2000s, when Robert Pattinson's lugubrious performance in "Twilight" set the tone for a generation of sad, brooding leads. For Powell, who made his debut in the quirky "Spy Kids 3: Game Over," this meant limited opportunities. He was often typecast as the jock or the vanilla neighbor, rarely getting a chance to shine.
And this is the part most people miss... "Guardians of the Galaxy" wasn't just a superhero movie; it was a game-changer. With Pratt's silly, buoyant Star-Lord, the film brought a much-needed playful tone to the MCU. Pratt's performance was a breath of fresh air, making it cool for leading men to embrace their dorky side.
"Chris Pratt showed us it's okay to be a massive dork!" Powell exclaims. Indeed, Pratt's Star-Lord was relatable, a fun-loving guy who found himself in an epic adventure. This character challenged the status quo, proving that leading men could be lighthearted and still capture audiences' hearts.
In comparing himself to Christian Bale's Batman, Powell highlights the shift. "Bale's Batman was intense and brooding, but Pratt's Star-Lord brought a new energy." Powell believes this change opened doors for actors like himself, offering a unique flavor to Hollywood's leading men.
Edgar Wright, Powell's director in "The Running Man," agrees. He sees Powell as a relatable conduit, bringing audiences into the story. This quality, combined with Powell's handsome charm, has led to his rising star. Even if James Bond isn't in his future, Powell's career is on an upward trajectory with roles in "Ghostwriter" and "Huntington."
While Pratt continues to shine, his impact on Hollywood's perception of leading men is often overlooked. Pratt brought a unique, endearing silliness to Star-Lord, challenging the norm. So, should we forgive him for "The Electric State"? The debate is open!
What's your take on this Hollywood evolution? Do you agree with Powell's assessment? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!
