Powell: Pratt's Guardians Role Redefined Hollywood Leads

Twisters star Glen Powell attributes Chris Pratt's role in Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy with revolutionizing the archetype of Hollywood leading men.

A New Kind of Hero Emerges

In a recent GQ interview, Powell highlighted how Pratt's portrayal of Star-Lord in James Gunn's 2014 blockbuster departed from traditional brooding protagonists. "That performance absolutely made an impact," Powell remarked. "He wasn't playing another dark, tormented character like Christian Bale's Batman or Robert Pattinson's Edward Cullen."

"When Pratt burst onto the scene with his lighter, more playful approach," Powell continued, "it resonated because that's where I naturally excel too. That comedic energy creates a necessary balance among Hollywood's leading men—one that surprisingly few actors can authentically deliver."

The Pratt Effect

Powell credits Pratt's career trajectory with helping validate his own path to stardom. While actors like Bale brought dramatic intensity and Pattinson embodied gothic romance, Pratt demonstrated how humor and charm could carry a major franchise.

The Star-Lord role propelled Pratt from sitcom actor to blockbuster lead, though his future in the MCU remains uncertain regarding Avengers: Doomsday. When questioned about his absence from casting announcements, Pratt humorously dodged: "Your guess is as good as mine! Maybe they'll digitally insert me later."

Powell's own star continues rising with his upcoming lead role in Edgar Wright's The Running Man, scheduled for release this November.