Glen Powell Says Chris Pratt in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ Changed Hollywood Leading Men: You Can Be ‘Sillier’ and Not Just ‘Brooding’ Like Robert Pattinson and Christian Bale – Variety

Key Takeaways:

• Glen Powell credits Chris Pratt’s comedic style for redefining the leading-man profile.
• Powell contrasts Pratt’s approach with Robert Pattinson and Christian Bale’s brooding images.
• “Guardians of the Galaxy” demonstrated that sillier, more relatable protagonists can work.
• Hollywood norms could shift toward lighter portrayals by male leads.
• The article, originally discussed in Variety, was featured on Google News in 2025.

Introduction

Glen Powell’s recent remarks shine a spotlight on what he sees as a shifting tide in Hollywood’s leading-man culture. According to Powell, Chris Pratt’s performance in “Guardians of the Galaxy” cracked open a new frontier by showing audiences that a comedic, occasionally goofy hero can capture viewers’ hearts just as effectively as the classic brooding protagonist.

Traditional Leading Men

For years, Robert Pattinson and Christian Bale represented the epitome of the dark, brooding style—an archetype that casts male leads as tortured or remote figures. This approach was lauded in numerous critically acclaimed performances, but Powell suggests Hollywood may be ready for an evolution.

Chris Pratt’s Comedic Shift

Powell points to Chris Pratt’s portrayal in “Guardians of the Galaxy” as the catalyst that expanded Hollywood’s view of what a leading man can be. Pratt’s signature humor and charm, far from overshadowing the gravitas of traditional heroes, provided a fresh angle that resonated with fans and critics alike. “You can be ‘sillier,’” Powell noted, “and not just ‘brooding.’”

A New Era for Heroes

By citing Pratt’s success, Powell raises the possibility that Hollywood might embrace more playful approaches for its next wave of leading men. Audiences, he suggests, appreciate laughter and levity, highlighting a desire for lighter on-screen experiences without losing the sense of high stakes or emotional connection.

Looking Ahead

As Powell’s commentary circulates—featured by Variety and viewed widely on Google News—industry insiders may watch closely for emerging actors who bring comedic energy to traditionally serious roles. Whether audiences continue to gravitate toward comedic protagonists or maintain an appetite for the brooding archetype remains to be seen. Yet Powell’s praise for Pratt underscores a new willingness to experiment, ushering in a broader range of possibilities for Hollywood’s favorite heroes.