If there’s one thing people like to do, it’s to laugh. Hollywood knows this just as much as anyone else, and it’s one of the reasons why comedy movies have begun to proliferate on the silver screens of the world. Comedy makes audiences feel good. They’re lapping up these movies and Tinseltown is understanding this and giving them more of what they want to see.
Of course, a lot of the comedy movie stars entertaining audiences in the movie cut their teeth on the stage in front of live audiences before transitioning to life in front of the film cameras. Below is a look at some of the leading comedy movie stars and their stories, at how comedians become movie stars and some of the traits that make this happen for them.
From stand-up and sketch comedy to big screen comedy
Comedians have become a common part of Hollywood movies. There have even been times when stars such as Kevin Hart have been in two movies that have made it into the top ten movies of the moment. The ability of comedians as performers and storytellers allows them to bring something of themselves from their comedy to roles on the big screen and act naturally and convincingly in front of the cameras.
Of course, some of Hollywood’s finest talents have come from a comedic background and gone on to star in unforgettable mirth-making creations for the big screen. Steve Martin, Eddie Murphy, Woody Allen, Whoopi Goldberg, Bette Midler and the late, great Robin Williams are just a few old-school favourites. In the more modern day, Jim Carrey, Kevin Hart and Will Ferrell have all been putting a smile on audience’s faces.
Traits of comedians that make them movie stars
Comedians are talented people, but what qualities and skills do they have that help them to make the transition to acting. Here are some of the main ones:
A varied toolbox
Comedians talk about things that can make people sad, uncomfortable or seriously angry, and they do so in a way that is amusing. They’re charismatic, and they discuss their subjects using energetic, tonal and emotional turns that keep the audience engaged and still on side. Their communication is effective and wins people over. Although a comedian’s speciality is comedy, they can step into other roles if they wish to, thanks to this skill.
Force of character
A comedian must be dynamic and have a strong enough character to change the energy of the room. They must have the personality to make an impression. It’s a skill some Hollywood actors spend their whole lives honing.
Successful comedy actors
Kevin Hart, Jim Carrey and Will Ferrell have all made a successful transition into comedic acting in Hollywood. Here are their stories:
Kevin Hart
Kevin Hart discovered humour as a coping mechanism while experiencing a difficult childhood. When he started out in comedy, he wasn’t very successful, but gradually he found his way and himself as a comedian after acquiring a mentor.
Hart is famous for his roles in the Jumanji sequels, “Get Hard,” “About Last Night,” and “Central Intelligence.” He’s also lent his voice to the animations “The Secret Life of Pets” and “Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie.”
Hart has amassed fans from all around the world due to his success and personality which has allowed him to secure a variety of brand deals as a result. This includes poker UK gaming platforms where he works with them as a brand ambassador, helping build their online social presence through his creative performances.
Jim Carrey
Jim Carrey is a born comedy performer and, after starting out on the local stand-up circuit, got a break when comedian Rodney Dangerfield spotted him and gave him a regular slot on “The Comedy Store.” It was his work on “In Living Color,” however, that would open the door to Hollywood, and he was cast onto screens in “Ace Ventura: Pet Detective.” Other memorable comedies include “Liar Liar,” “Ace Venture: When Nature Calls” and “Dumb and Dumber,”
Will Ferrell
The hilarious Will Ferrell started off with LA-based comedy group The Groundlings before a seven-year stint performing on Saturday Night Live. His presence as a regular cast member helped the show revive its ratings. Following his appearance in “Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery,” SNL spin-off “A Night at the Roxbury” and “Zoolander,” it became harder and harder for the show to keep their man. Ferrell went on to star in memorable comedies such as “Old School,” “Anchorman: the Legend of Ron Burgundy” and heart-warming Christmas movie “Elf.”
Comedy is the big draw these days, and Hollywood is producing comedy by the bucket-load, giving people something to smile about in tough times. If you’re looking to laugh, the comedians mentioned above all deliver fine performances in their movies that will forget any woes you may have for the time being.
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