Why Paul Rudd's humor keeps getting better with age
What's the story
From his career-defining roles to his latest performances, Paul Rudd has quoted his way to make himself a staple of the American cinema with his unique brand of humor that has Socratically evolved over the years. Here, we take a look at how Rudd's humor has changed through the years and how it shaped him into the beloved star he is today.
Early roles
'Clueless' and early career
It was in the mid-1990s that Rudd stole hearts with his performance in Clueless. Rudd's charm and wit were apparent even back then, paving the way for future comedic roles. During this time, Rudd regularly played the affable everyman with an understated sense of humor that struck a chord with viewers. These initial roles set the path for his later stardom as a comedian.
Comedy shift
Transition to comedy films
As Rudd's career advanced into the 2000s, he started taking on more overtly comedic roles. Films like Anchorman highlighted his knack for deadpan humor while keeping it engaging on-screen. This transition opened him to various aspects of comedy, from slapstick to improvised, making him popular among varied audiences.
Creative partnerships
Collaboration with Judd Apatow
A major turning point in Rudd's career was working with director Judd Apatow. Films like The 40-Year-Old Virgin and Knocked Up showcased their winning combination. Apatow's flicks gave Rudd a chance to play with improvisation and character-driven comedy, honing his sense of humor even more.
Superhero humor
Marvel Cinematic Universe impact
Joining the MCU as Ant-Man added another dimension to Rudd's comedic arsenal. His character was a perfect blend of action and light-heartedness, winning over superhero fanatics and comedy lovers alike. This role showed how he could maintain a sense of humor in action-packed narratives without compromising on authenticity or charm.
Versatile performances
Continued success in diverse roles
In recent years, Rudd also continued to diversify his filmography by taking on varied roles that challenge traditional comedic boundaries. Whether he's starring in independent films or mainstream blockbusters like Ant-Man, he consistently delivers performances that blend humor seamlessly into different genres, proving that adaptability remains key throughout an evolving career trajectory.