Chick Flicks Need a New Hugh Grant
Adam Brody, Michael Cera, John Krasinski, James Marsden Considered
Aug 18, 2008
For years, Hugh Grant has been the comedy staple, basically cementing the success of any romantic comedy he chooses. While his career is obviously not about range or trying new roles, he has done his bit reliably for quite some time, and only now is the time coming that he will need a replacement. After all, this is Hollywood, and what could possibly matter more than age in Hollywood? Who else can be so witty and loveable?
A few have tried their hand recently. Definitely, Maybe star Ryan Reynolds should get a nod for effort, but throughout the movie his character wavers between likeable and trying, never really deciding which side is his. That film relies heavily on its handful of female comediennes (Elizabeth Banks, Rachel Weiss) to keep things light and fun, as its star falls decidedly short.
Dane Cook also gave romantic comedy a shot, in Good Luck Chuck. While he does manage more charm than Ryan Reynolds, it’s a marginal win. Even when love struck, his character mostly appears unsure and somewhat desperate rather than heartfelt, which is arguably the main endearing quality of Mr. Grant.
This begs the question, obviously… who could fill the shoes of someone so solidly accomplished?
Adam Brody: Quirky Look-a-Like
The work of Adam Brody is based solidly in comedy, but only one movie could really be deemed a chick flick. His role as Carter Webb in In the Land of Women is remarkably winning. He plays a heartbroken searcher, who keeps stumbling into adoration of several women at the same time. Unfortunately, two of them happen to be mother and daughter. Brody is funny, endearing, and one has no problem falling a little in love with him even through his considerable flaws.
Michael Cera: a New Favorite of Comedy
Guys like Michael Cera are not meant to be pinup material, or movie stars in the spotlight. He is soft spoken, most of his characters are understated, and he is continually typecast as the nerd with a side of charm. That said, he is one of the funniest young actors in Hollywood, and recently starred in the Academy Award-nominated film Juno. He played Paulie Bleeker, owner of less-then-sexy running shorts, who gets sixteen-year-old Juno MacDuff pregnant unexpectedly.
Perhaps one of the highlights in the film is his response to Juno’s long and heartfelt declarations of love: he listens intently, then says quietly, “Can we make out now?”
John Krasinski: Undeniably Loveable, with a Twist of Wry
John Krasinski got his start on The Office, NBC’s smash hit that simply brims with sarcasm, sharp wit, and realism. Granted, this is not exactly the background of most romantic comedy stars, never mind that of Hugh Grant. However, he does nail his role as Jim Halpert, office stud, managing to win the hearts of millions of Office fans. “I Love Jim” is a phrase often found on Office paraphernalia. He is an expert at both love struck eyes and deadpan comedy.
He further showed his promise in License to Wed, a light and fluffy comedy in which he stars opposite Mandy Moore. He was able to show off his comedy chops in several scenes paired with Robin Williams, who plays the reverend determined to put the couple through a very rigorous premarital counseling. Krasinski has no problem keeping up with the banter, and of course does make it to the altar in the end.
James Marsden: Already Halfway There
If the current trend in his career continues, James Marsden does seem to be the most likely candidate to replace Hugh Grant. He fills several requirements already, being well versed in comedy, acting, and even an unexpected presence in a few musicals. He has played opposite Amy Adams (Enchanted), Katherine Heigl (27 Dresses), and Rachel McAdams (The Notebook). He is Tony Collins on The Tony Collins Show featured in the musical Hairspray. He definitely possesses the talent, the looks, and is well poised to accept the fame.
He is not there yet, as a large part of the movie-watching world still refers to him as “the X-Men guy.” His is not yet a household name, even with several lead roles under his belt. Is he missing some essential part of the magnetism that Hugh Grant obviously had?
Perhaps the film world will find a new niche for Hugh Grant, who certainly deserves to continue his career in comedy, even if not as a world wide heartthrob. He has starred opposite almost every leading lady imaginable, continually making movies that are dubbed "instant classics." His influence has been considerable, and the shoes to be filled are enormous.
