Glen Powell, the affable and charming actor, credits Chris Pratt's portrayal of Star-Lord in the 2014 film 'Guardians of the Galaxy' as a pivotal moment in Hollywood's evolution. In an interview with GQ, Powell discussed how Pratt's character brought a refreshing change to the industry, moving away from the brooding and dark leading men of the past. This shift allowed for more upbeat and positive leading men to take center stage, a stark contrast to the era dominated by 'brooding sad boys.'
Powell reflects on the impact of Robert Pattinson, who he considers the prototype of lugubrious loners in Hollywood during the 2000s. This era was challenging for Powell, who made his acting debut in the ridiculous 'Spy Kids 3: Game Over' alongside Selena Gomez in 2003. For a long time, he struggled to secure roles beyond bit parts, often being typecast as the jock or the fraternity guy. However, all that changed when Chris Pratt's Star-Lord danced onto the screen.
'Guardians of the Galaxy' not only brought a new sense of humor to the MCU but also introduced a protagonist like no other. Star-Lord, played by Pratt, was a fun-loving character who found himself in a grand adventure, a stark contrast to the more serious and recent Marvel offerings. This portrayal made it acceptable for leading men to embrace their inner dork, a concept that Powell strongly relates to.
In the same interview, Powell draws a comparison between himself and Christian Bale's Batman, acknowledging the gravitas and weight that Bale brought to the role. However, he emphasizes that Chris Pratt's Star-Lord represented a different approach, one that was silly, buoyant, and relatable. This new portrayal resonated with Powell, who felt it was a necessary addition to Hollywood's leading men landscape.
The director of 'The Running Man,' Edgar Wright, shares this sentiment, describing Powell as a relatable and identifiable character. This quality is evident in Powell's on-screen persona and has proven successful in films like 'Hit Man,' where his down-to-earth nature adds a layer of humor when contrasted with the ruthless killer character. Despite his undeniable charm, Powell remains an 'everyman' figure, which, as Pratt's career demonstrates, can be a powerful asset in Hollywood.
While Pratt has become one of the biggest stars in recent years, his impact on the industry's perception of leading men is often overlooked. His portrayal of Star-Lord brought a unique and endearing silliness to the role, a departure from the typical fashion of the time. Despite some questionable choices, like his appearance in 'The Electric State,' Pratt's influence on Hollywood's leading men is undeniable.
