During the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s, Hollywood was swept up in a craze for romantic comedies. These films were not only adored by audiences but also made a fortune at the box office. Although their popularity has dipped in recent times, there is now a thrilling revival of interest in this genre. It’s fascinating to take a trip down memory lane and discover the big stars who kick-started their careers in the world of romantic comedies.
Believe it or not, many actors who are now renowned for their thrilling roles in blockbusters like the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and DC Extended Universe (DCEU) actually began their acting journey in the realm of romantic comedies. It’s mind-blowing to see their incredible range as performers, seamlessly transitioning from heartwarming, humorous characters to intense, action-packed heroes.
1. Definitely, Maybe’ – Ryan Reynolds
Ryan Reynolds, like many other stars of his generation, has risen to fame through his roles in superhero films. You may know him from his iconic portrayal of Deadpool in the 2016 film and its 2018 sequel. However, before his superhero days, Reynolds showcased his talent as a romantic leading man in the 2008 film Definitely, Maybe.
In Definitely, Maybe, Reynolds takes on the role of Will Hayes, an advertising agent who shares the story of his romantic adventures with his daughter as a way to help her understand his divorce from her mother. This film not only highlights Reynolds’s captivating charisma as an actor and leading man, but it also cleverly plays with the conventions and tropes of the romantic comedy genre.
Interestingly, Definitely, Maybe foreshadowed Reynolds’s later success in romantic comedies. The following year, he starred alongside Sandra Bullock in The Proposal, which further solidified his place in the genre. Not to mention, this film also gifted audiences with a memorable appearance from the talented Betty White.
2. Clueless’ – Paul Rudd
Paul Rudd, like many other actors, has achieved great success in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He portrayed Scott Lang/Ant-Man in the Ant-Man films and various other entries in the franchise since 2015. However, before his involvement in the massive franchise, he made a lasting impression in the beloved romantic comedy of the 90s, Clueless.
Clueless, as all devoted fans of romantic comedies know, is a modern retelling of Jane Austen’s Emma. Alicia Silverstone takes on the role of Cher Horowitz, the Emma character, while Paul Rudd portrays Josh Lucas, the man Cher gradually falls for. Even back then, it was evident that Rudd possessed the qualities of a genuine star. With his youthful appearance and natural charisma, it’s no wonder he had such a strong impact on Cher.
3. Crazy, Stupid, Love’ – Ryan Gosling
Ryan Gosling is widely recognized for his striking good looks and natural charm, traits that undoubtedly played a role in his rise to stardom. These qualities were on full display in the 2011 film Crazy, Stupid, Love, where he portrayed the character Jacob Palmer. Jacob takes under his wing the hapless Cal Weaver, played by Steve Carell, in an attempt to school him in the art of seduction. While Jacob can be a bit of a scoundrel, Gosling effortlessly captivates audiences with his undeniable charisma.
Despite his reputation for delivering powerful dramatic performances, Gosling showcased his versatility as an actor in the 2017 sci-fi action flick Blade Runner 2049. This film highlighted his ability to command attention across a range of genres, underscoring the depth of his talent.
4. This Means War’ – Tom Hardy
Tom Hardy has definitely made a name for himself in the world of high-profile action franchises. He’s played iconic roles like Mad Max in Mad Max: Fury Road, Bane in The Dark Knight Rises, and Venom in both Venom and Venom: Let There be Carnage. It’s quite remarkable to look back at his career, considering all of these releases happened in the 2010s.
While Hardy is now strongly associated with big-budget action films and superhero franchises, it’s interesting to note that during the same time he was in The Dark Knight Rises (released in 2012), he also starred in This Means War. This film revolves around a love triangle involving two CIA agents and the same woman they’re dating. Although the film may have its messy moments, there’s an undeniable chemistry between Reese Witherspoon, Hardy, and Chris Pine.
5. He’s Just Not That Into You’ – Bradley Cooper And Scarlett Johansson
Bradley Cooper, now recognized as a formidable actor and director, has had a fascinating career in Hollywood. With his striking good looks and captivating blue eyes, it’s not surprising to see him cast in various romantic comedies. One of his notable roles was in the film He’s Just Not That Into You, where he portrays Ben, a man who cheats on his wife with an aspiring singer. However, he ends up losing both women in the process. Scarlett Johansson plays Anna, the singer with whom he begins an affair.
This film was released in 2009, a crucial stage for both actors. It arrived just before Johansson’s meteoric rise with Iron Man 2 and coincided with Cooper’s own breakthrough film, The Hangover, which was also released in the same year. In both movies, Cooper portrays characters whose outward attractiveness masks a deeply troubled soul.
6. 13 Going on 30′ – Mark Ruffalo
Mark Ruffalo, known for his versatility as an actor, has played diverse roles in both the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) as Bruce Banner/the Hulk and in intelligent and thoughtful dramas like The Normal Heart and Spotlight. However, even before these iconic adventures, Ruffalo starred in the 2004 romantic comedy 13 Going on 30.
This film falls into the genre of romantic comedies that embrace the fantastical. It revolves around Jenna Rink, a 13-year-old girl who magically finds herself in the body of her 30-year-old self. Ruffalo portrays Matty, the love interest of the adult Jenna.
Following his role in 13 Going on 30, but prior to his memorable appearance in the MCU, Ruffalo took on a wide range of film projects. These diverse successes further showcase his exceptional versatility as a performer.
7. Moonstruck’ – Nicolas Cage
Nicolas Cage is known for his eccentricity both in front of and behind the camera. He has shown this ability throughout his career, even before starring in action films like The Rock (1996) and Con Air (1997). One example of his versatility is his role as Ronny Cammareri, an unlikely yet captivating romantic leading man in Moonstruck.
In the film, Cage plays the younger brother of Johnny, who is engaged to Loretta Castorini, portrayed by Cher. Ronny and Loretta embark on an affair, leading to a series of humorous and heartfelt moments. At this early stage in his career, Cage already displayed the unique charm that would later contribute to his success as a true movie star.
8. Blind Date’ – Bruce Willis
Bruce Willis is widely known for his association with the action genre, with some of his most noteworthy triumphs being in movies like Die Hard in 1988. However, his initial breakthrough in the world of cinema came in the form of the Blake Edwards comedy, Blind Date. In this film, Willis portrays the unfortunate Walter Davis, whose blind date turns into an absolute disaster from start to finish.
Blind Date turned out to be a remarkable success, offering an intriguing glimpse into Willis’s on-screen presence before he became synonymous with characters like John McClane. Just a year later, Die Hard thrust Willis into the realm of superstardom, firmly establishing his status as an icon of the action-hero genre throughout the 1980s and 1990s.
9. A Walk in the Clouds’ – Keanu Reeves
Keanu Reeves is known for his diverse and captivating career as an actor. He has appeared in a wide range of films, from independent dramas like My Own Private Idaho to intense science fiction movies like The Matrix, which really catapulted his success. However, just before his breakthrough in The Matrix, he explored the realm of romance in the 1995 film A Walk in the Clouds.
In this movie, Reeves portrays Paul Sutton, a veteran of World War II who returns home to find his marriage falling apart. He then finds himself falling in love with someone else. This film showcased Reeves’s versatility and demonstrated that he was more than just an actor known for independent or action films, which were the highlights of his early career in the late 1980s and 1990s, including the 1991 hit Point Break.
10. Pushing Tin’ – Angelina Jolie
Angelina Jolie is not only a talented performer but also a skilled director. She has proven herself both in front of and behind the camera, showcasing remarkable versatility in the roles she takes on. While she has established herself as a formidable dramatic actress, many still regard her as the ultimate female action hero due to her iconic portrayal of Lara Croft in Tomb Raider (2001).
Back in 1999, Jolie impressed audiences with her performance in the romantic comedy Pushing Tin. In the film, she portrays the character of Mary Bell, who is unhappily married to Russell, played by Billy Bob Thornton (who would later become her real-life husband). This movie stands out as it displays Jolie’s range as an actress, delving into the depths of her characters to bring them to life.
