The biggest film of the month, Ant-Man & The Wasp: Quantumania drops in theaters tonight! In honor of the release, this week I’m looking at five of my favorite Paul Rudd films where he isn’t playing a Marvel superhero. Enjoy!
Clueless (1995)
About: This is one of the first films where I remember seeing Rudd, who plays the thankless role of Josh. His rapport and chemistry with Alicia Silverstone is great, and I love the way the story plays out. This begins a long career as the nice guy.
Cider House Rules (1999)
About: This drama, based on a John Irving novel, is mostly about Tobey Maguire, Charlize Theron and Michael Caine. Rudd gets the thankless role of the boyfriend who goes away to war, returns injured and is sort of a plot device in the way of the principal characters’ potential romance. He’s solid in the role and I love the film, but it’s a somewhat thankless part.
Knocked Up (2007)
About: Here he’s the brother-in-law. Rudd has fun in the role in a film that’s mostly about Seth Rogen and Katherine Heigl’s characters. He and Leslie Mann got their own sequel later, but I prefer this film. I love the way Rudd adds to the background of these scenes.
Role Models (2008)
About: Here he’s a lead, playing the straight man opposite Seann William Scott. It’s a fun and charming role and Rudd makes the most of it. This might be one of his more under-rated comedies.
Ghostbusters: Afterlife (2021)
About: This Jason Reitman-helmed sequel introduces the next generation. Rudd plays a key role and has a lot of fun opposite his younger co-stars and as a love interest to Carrie Coon. It’s a kick and a film that ended up being a lot better than I expected. I love Rudd in the role.
Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.
The Music City Drive-In 
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