Chris Pratt has established himself as a top-tier Hollywood leading man over the last decade, starring in blockbuster franchises such as Guardians of the Galaxy and Jurassic World. However, despite his strong leading roles, many overlook his ability to excel as a supporting actor, which is where the “Chris Pratt supporting role breakout” truly shines. In the 2008 film Wanted, now streaming in Netflix’s top 10 movies, Pratt delivers a standout performance that reveals his skill in playing complex, less likable characters.
Wanted stars James McAvoy as Wesley, an average office worker who discovers he is part of a secret brotherhood of assassins capable of curving bullets. Angelina Jolie also stars, showcasing one of her most iconic action roles. The film’s blend of over-the-top action and fantasy elements creates a vividly stylized world, and amid this chaos, Pratt’s character stands out even with limited screen time.
Portraying Barry: The Ultimate Toxic Best Friend in ‘Wanted’
In Wanted, Chris Pratt plays Barry, Wesley’s supposed best friend, who is anything but loyal or trustworthy. Barry embodies a classic toxic friend: outwardly friendly but betraying those close to him. He is a slick, womanizing character who shows little respect for others, compounded by his secret affair with Wesley’s girlfriend, Cathy, played by Kristen Hager. Pratt’s portrayal captures the character’s unpleasant nature perfectly, balancing charm with a repugnant sense of smugness.
Though Barry’s screen presence is brief, Pratt commands the role, making his character both entertaining and infuriating. His performance highlights a type of antagonist that viewers love to hate, contributing one of the film’s most memorable scenes when Wesley confronts him with an intense reaction. This role stands out in Pratt’s career as an unusual but highly effective depiction of a flawed, despicable character, underlining his versatility as an actor.
Must be a Monday, amirite?
Why Chris Pratt Should Embrace More Supporting Roles
Chris Pratt’s best-known persona might be Peter Quill, or Star-Lord, from Guardians of the Galaxy, where his blend of humor and charisma has delighted audiences. Similarly, he demonstrates impressive physicality in action films like Jurassic World and The Tomorrow War. Despite this, many critics and fans argue that Pratt’s greatest strengths lie in his roles as a supporting actor, where he can fully display his comedic timing and dramatic depth.
Supporting characters often serve as the heart of a film, sometimes even overshadowing lead roles. Iconic examples include Samwise Gamgee in The Lord of the Rings, Cliff Booth in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, and Mr. Miyagi in The Karate Kid. These roles are often career-defining and award-winning, as seen with actors like Brad Pitt and Octavia Spencer, who both received Oscars for supporting roles that remain celebrated.
Pratt has not always received recognition for his supporting performances, partly because the lead roles he often takes, such as in The Electric State or Passengers, do not capitalize on his full range of talents. His capability for nuanced comedic and dramatic acting is sometimes underused in straightforward action or sci-fi parts. Revisiting characters like Barry from Wanted could revitalize Pratt’s career and allow him to explore roles that highlight his unique abilities more effectively.
Chris Pratt is a gifted character actor whose full potential is best realized when he takes on well-crafted supporting roles. Wanted exemplifies this aspect of his craft, demonstrating how a seemingly small part can become a defining moment in an actor’s career and offering a glimpse of what he can achieve with the right material.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does Chris Pratt’s son have a disability?
A. Jack Pratt was born too early but has since gotten better. Chris Pratt and Anna Faris are thankful for his recovery and see him as healthy as other kids his age. Both Anna and Chris have often referred to their son as healthy.
Q. Is Chris Pratt’s religion?
A. Pratt grew up following the Lutheran faith. Later, he worked with Jews for Jesus, before choosing to become a non-denominational Christian.
Q. Is Chris Pratt a vegan?
A. Pratt is one of several actors from Marvel movies who follow a vegan eating plan.
