Paul Rudd has become one of the most celebrated and desired actors in Hollywood. With a flair for comedy and compelling dramatic roles, Paul Rudd has been in some well-known and genuinely funny movies, as well as some standout dramas. With a career spanning nearly three decades, Paul Rudd has been in a staggering range of pictures, so here we’re going to investigate some of his most popular and memorable roles.
Career Beginnings
Paul Rudd began his career appearing in commercials in the ’90s, quickly followed by minor roles in shows such as Sisters and The Workplace. It was his appearances in the Apatow-era of comedy, often alongside the likes of Will Ferrell and Seth Rogen, that saw him become a renowned on-screen talent.
Most Iconic Comedies
Role Models
This comedy, starring Rudd alongside Seann William Scott and Christopher Mintz-Plasse, was released in 2008. In it, the pair have to act as role models to children who need guidance, and it features a whole lot of zany situational comedy.
Anchorman
Released in 2004, as part of the Apatow dynasty of comedy, Anchorman stars Will Ferrell and Steve Carell, alongside Rudd. Rudd is the most sensible of the quartet, yet still displays his comedic talent.
I Love You, Man
I Love You, Man, released in 2009, stars Rudd alongside Jason Segel. This obscure comedy turned out to be a huge hit, showcasing both actors’ talent for physical comedy.
Knocked Up
Rudd starred in this 2007 classic which sees Seth Rogen try to connect with Katherine Heigl’s character and keep a secret pregnancy under wraps. Paul Rudd put in an outstanding performance as Heigl’s friend Ben and the film has since become a much-loved comedy classic.
Notable Dramas
The Shape of Water
The 2017 Academy Award winning picture, The Shape of Water, saw Paul Rudd take on a supporting role. Straddling the genres of fantasy, romance, and horror the film was awarded four Oscars and was a critical and financial success.
The Catcher Was A Spy
Also released in 2017, The Catcher Was A Spy is based on a true story about a baseball player who is recruited by the government and forced to spy on the Nazis. Rudd plays Moe Berg the baseball player in question, and the film was both a box office and critical success.
They Came Together
Released in 2014, They Came Together (starring Amy Poehler and Paul Rudd), is a rom-com send-up parodying typical romantic comedies. This satire sees Rudd play his now trademark funny but lovable character archetype, as he and Poehler’s characters are forced to come to terms with the difficulties of a long-term relationship.
The Fundamentals of Caring
The Fundamentals of Caring, released in 2016, features Paul Rudd in a emotionally touching role. This uplifting drama follows a teenager with muscular dystrophy, played by Craig Roberts, and his new caregiver, played by Rudd, who, together, go on a road trip to explore new experiences and, ultimately, find out more about each other.
From humorous roles in comedies, to touching and intense performances in dramas, Paul Rudd has proved his ability to remain versatile as an actor over his career. Here, we’ve looked at some of Paul Rudd’s most well-known and renowned roles from both genres, from playing Ben in Knocked Up to Moe Berg in The Catcher Was A Spy. With a variety of different styles and approaches, Paul Rudd is both a reliable and exciting actor that always leaves us wanting more.
