Showing posts with label Crushworthy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Crushworthy. Show all posts
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
CRUSHWORTHY: Paul James Jordan from ABC Family's "Bunheads"
CRUSHWORTHY: Garrett Coffey from ABC Family's "Bunheads"
Watch him in action:
ONE-TO-WATCH: Mireille Enos from Gangster Squad
Future Projects: The biographical crime drama Devil's Knot with Reese Witherspoon, Colin Firth, and Dane DeHaan (Chronicle); the Marc Foster horror drama World War Z with Brad Pitt and Matthew Fox; the David Ayer dramatic thriller Ten with Arnold Schwarzenneger, Sam Worthington, and many more; and the thriller Queen of the Night with Ryan Reynolds and Rosario Dawson.
CRUSHWORTHY: Eddie Redmayne from Les Misérables
Past Films: The Good Shepherd as Matt Damon and Angelina Jolie's neglected son; Savage Grace as Julianne Moore's schizophrenic son; Elizabeth: The Golden Age as an assassin hired to kill the queen; The Yellow Handkerchief* as a geeky outcast; The Other Boleyn Girl as Scarlett Johansson's suitor; Powder Blue* as a reluctant mortician with bad asthma; Black Death* as a monk seeking a supernatural cure to the bubonic plague; Hick*; My Week with Marilyn as an aspiring filmmaker who is obsessed with the icon; Les Misérables as a revolutionary.
Future Films: Jupiter Ascending, a Wachowski film, where he'll star alongside Mila Kunis and Channing Tatum. It's a dystopian sci-fi action film about a woman who is targeted for assassination by the Queen of the Universe to prevent being overthrown. It's like a futuristic Snow White.
*Available on Netflix Instant Watch.
Monday, September 03, 2012
The Hottest Guys of Summer 2012
It's been a long, hot summer, partly because of the new wave of crushes that debuted this season. As a safety precaution, I would advise breaking out your fans and your buckets of ice before you check out the new crop of crushes to hit your screens:
Daniel Sharman
Age: 26
Summer Series/Character: MTV's "Teen Wolf," as an outsider and abused child, who desperately craved a drastic change and voluntarily became a werewolf.
Why He's Hot: Sharman's got that brooding thing down—and it's all in the eyes. He has a way of looking at people that makes them uneasy. You don't know if he's friend or foe. Within, he struggles with opposing desires to both seek revenge and be the hero he doesn't believe he can be. He does a great job of playing the misunderstood antihero who always keeps you guessing. He's the bad boy you want to save. And to think, he's not even using his British accent.
What's Next: The indie horror thriller The Collection.
Derek Theler
Age: 26
Summer Series/Character: ABC Family's "Baby Daddy," as a hockey-playing big bro who has a major crush on his childhood bff.
Why He's Hot: Besides the fact that he is a giant hunk of a man who could easily go head-to-head with Thor (the actor who plays him, not the actual superhero), Theler has an adorable naive smile, great comic timing in the vein of Joey Lawrence circa "Blossom" meets Matt LeBlanc circa "Friends," and his character has the sweetest crush on his formerly-fat bff—and it started when she was fat. Major extra points.
What's Next: Next season of "Baby Daddy," when he'll have to compete against his own bro for Riley's heart, since she's finally noticed what a catch he is and Ben is finally noticing her.
Gregg Sulkin
Age: 20
Summer Series/Character: ABC Family's "Pretty Little Liars," as Ezra's little brother who reenters his life with a seemingly innocent agenda
Why He's Hot: I've actually seen Sulkin before as Selena Gomez's werewolf boyfriend on Disney's "Wizards of Waverly Place," where he got to use his natural British accent. Then I saw him again this summer on ABC Family's "Melissa & Joey" doing a brief romantic arc, and I've gotta say he's exponentially hotter with the accent—as most Brits are. (You know the moment you heard Robert Pattinson's natural accent, you were like Jacob, who?) When he popped up on "Pretty Little Liars," playing the third in the Ezra-Aria-Wesley love triangle, I was less impressed. As it turns out, creepy is not a good look on him. But he makes the list for his perfect hair and piercing deep looks. Honestly, Aria could be stalked by worse.
What's Next: The indie drama Affluenza that was inspired by The Great Gatsby.
John Gallagher Jr.
Age: 28
Summer Series/Character: HBO's "The Newsroom," as a senior producer on a newly formatted news series and a lovesick good-guy
Why He's Hot: By now you've probably heard the billion comparisons to Jesse Eisenberg, in both appearance and cadence. After all, his character Jim is an intelligent, academically-confident, socially-inept doormat, and he's speaking Aaron Sorkin's words. It was bound to happen. But I credit Mr. Gallagher's hotness not to his intellect or his endearing dorkiness, but to his ability to make the archetype of the "criminally neglected boy-next-door, who repeatedly endures his dream girl's rejections" finally tolerable. I love (500) Days of Summer for its creative editing and direction. I hated, however, watching a perfectly nice guy basically get his heart ripped out in slow motion by a girl, might I add, that totally didn't deserve the adoration. It happens so many times in movies that I often leave the theater wanting to kick that girl's ass, because it's girls like that that ruin the good guys for the rest of us. While most of the credit goes to Mr. Sorkin for creating a female character worthy of such adoration, a lot of it also goes to Gallagher for making us believe that he's not just infatuated by some manifestation he's created, but in love with his soul mate. He makes you root for him harder than you ever have for a fictional character. You have friends you don't support this much. Oh and did I mention he won a Tony for Spring Awakening? I mean, overachieving much?
What's Next: Next season of "The Newsroom," when we will see if he can still work alongside Maggie after she gave him false hope and emotionally gutted him once again.
Max Schneider
Age: 20
Summer Movie/Character: NICK's made-for-TV movie Rags, as an orphan and aspiring singer
Why He's Hot: He looks like a cross between James Dean and Nick Jonas. Swoon! And it doesn't hurt that his singing voice, a melodic mix of R&B and pop, is really good for an unsigned artist. Talent is always sexy.
What's Next: He's actually in the NICK series "How to Rock," but he just wrapped the supernatural love story The Last Keeper.
Michael Ealy
Age: 39
Summer Series/Character: USA's "Common Law," as a rebellious cop and ladies man
Why He's Hot: Those gorgeous eyes, that charismatic smile, his overconfident swagger—I could go on. Ealy's been in the business for more than a decade now. While his career picked up in '02 when he debuted in the black cinema classic Barbershop, and it appeared he was finally getting his shot in the short-lived Showtime crime drama "Sleeper Cell" three years later, it wasn't until the even more short-lived ABC conspiracy series "FlashForward" that people started to take notice. Before you know it he was co-starring in the dramatic adaptation of For Colored Girls, guest-starring as an enterprising lawyer in CBS's "The Good Wife," and starring in the hit rom-com adaptation of Steve Harvey's Think Like a Man. His new USA series is just another stepping stone in the right direction.
What's Next: The dramatic indie Unconditional with Lynn Collins (John Carter), and the rom-com drama About Last Night with Regina Hall (Think Like a Man), Joy Bryant ("Parenthood"), and comedian Kevin Hart.
Nathan Parsons
Age: 24
Summer Series/Character: ABC Family's "Bunheads," as a part-time bartender, full-time nomad and zen surfer
Why He's Hot: Come on? Seriously? He could've been a silent movie actor cause I could care less what he's saying. Normally surfer-speak sounds like a bunch of lazy mantras laced together by weed, but while staring at this dude you would glady consume the crap his character spews and eagerly ask for a second serving if only to retain his shirtless attention for a few more seconds.
What's Next: Hopefully, he'll be back next season in spite of his seemingly final bon-voyage-sex with Michelle.
Peter Mooney
Age: 29
Summer Series/Character: ABC's "Rookie Blue," as an ex-soldier-turned-cop, who returns to rekindle his childhood romance with the Ice Queen Gail.
Why He's Hot: In the first episode we're introduced to his character Nick, he dives into a river to apprehend a kidnapper. Some would call that irresponsible, but given that he had the balls to, I like to think of it as badass. Nick may respect authority more than most of his fellow rookies, but when he breaks the rules, it isn't because of pride or rebelliousness, but because of honor and duty, making him a whole different kind of bad boy. The one you can rely on.
What's Next: Next season of "Rookie Blue," where I'm sure things will get romantically complicated as Nick starts to get closer to Andy.
Richard Ayoade
Age: 35
Summer Movie/Character: The Watch, the sex-obsessed voice-of-reason amongst a band of alien-hunting suburbanites.
Why He's Hot: Surprisingly, not because of his accent. It's more his comedic delivery. His tone is apologetic, innocent, and timid. He sounds like he could voice a cautious mouse. It's adorable. And it makes everything he says adorable...even when what he says is incredibly raunchy and inappropriate. Think Jemaine Clement ("Flight of the Conchords") meets Stephen Mangan ("Episodes"), not Russell Brand meets Ricky Gervais.
What's Next: Nothing as of yet, but you could always rent all four seasons of "The IT Crowd" to hold you over.
Daniel Sharman
Age: 26
Summer Series/Character: MTV's "Teen Wolf," as an outsider and abused child, who desperately craved a drastic change and voluntarily became a werewolf.
Why He's Hot: Sharman's got that brooding thing down—and it's all in the eyes. He has a way of looking at people that makes them uneasy. You don't know if he's friend or foe. Within, he struggles with opposing desires to both seek revenge and be the hero he doesn't believe he can be. He does a great job of playing the misunderstood antihero who always keeps you guessing. He's the bad boy you want to save. And to think, he's not even using his British accent.
What's Next: The indie horror thriller The Collection.
Age: 26
Summer Series/Character: ABC Family's "Baby Daddy," as a hockey-playing big bro who has a major crush on his childhood bff.
Why He's Hot: Besides the fact that he is a giant hunk of a man who could easily go head-to-head with Thor (the actor who plays him, not the actual superhero), Theler has an adorable naive smile, great comic timing in the vein of Joey Lawrence circa "Blossom" meets Matt LeBlanc circa "Friends," and his character has the sweetest crush on his formerly-fat bff—and it started when she was fat. Major extra points.
What's Next: Next season of "Baby Daddy," when he'll have to compete against his own bro for Riley's heart, since she's finally noticed what a catch he is and Ben is finally noticing her.
Age: 20
Summer Series/Character: ABC Family's "Pretty Little Liars," as Ezra's little brother who reenters his life with a seemingly innocent agenda
Why He's Hot: I've actually seen Sulkin before as Selena Gomez's werewolf boyfriend on Disney's "Wizards of Waverly Place," where he got to use his natural British accent. Then I saw him again this summer on ABC Family's "Melissa & Joey" doing a brief romantic arc, and I've gotta say he's exponentially hotter with the accent—as most Brits are. (You know the moment you heard Robert Pattinson's natural accent, you were like Jacob, who?) When he popped up on "Pretty Little Liars," playing the third in the Ezra-Aria-Wesley love triangle, I was less impressed. As it turns out, creepy is not a good look on him. But he makes the list for his perfect hair and piercing deep looks. Honestly, Aria could be stalked by worse.
What's Next: The indie drama Affluenza that was inspired by The Great Gatsby.
Age: 28
Summer Series/Character: HBO's "The Newsroom," as a senior producer on a newly formatted news series and a lovesick good-guy
Why He's Hot: By now you've probably heard the billion comparisons to Jesse Eisenberg, in both appearance and cadence. After all, his character Jim is an intelligent, academically-confident, socially-inept doormat, and he's speaking Aaron Sorkin's words. It was bound to happen. But I credit Mr. Gallagher's hotness not to his intellect or his endearing dorkiness, but to his ability to make the archetype of the "criminally neglected boy-next-door, who repeatedly endures his dream girl's rejections" finally tolerable. I love (500) Days of Summer for its creative editing and direction. I hated, however, watching a perfectly nice guy basically get his heart ripped out in slow motion by a girl, might I add, that totally didn't deserve the adoration. It happens so many times in movies that I often leave the theater wanting to kick that girl's ass, because it's girls like that that ruin the good guys for the rest of us. While most of the credit goes to Mr. Sorkin for creating a female character worthy of such adoration, a lot of it also goes to Gallagher for making us believe that he's not just infatuated by some manifestation he's created, but in love with his soul mate. He makes you root for him harder than you ever have for a fictional character. You have friends you don't support this much. Oh and did I mention he won a Tony for Spring Awakening? I mean, overachieving much?
What's Next: Next season of "The Newsroom," when we will see if he can still work alongside Maggie after she gave him false hope and emotionally gutted him once again.
Age: 20
Summer Movie/Character: NICK's made-for-TV movie Rags, as an orphan and aspiring singer
Why He's Hot: He looks like a cross between James Dean and Nick Jonas. Swoon! And it doesn't hurt that his singing voice, a melodic mix of R&B and pop, is really good for an unsigned artist. Talent is always sexy.
What's Next: He's actually in the NICK series "How to Rock," but he just wrapped the supernatural love story The Last Keeper.
Age: 39
Summer Series/Character: USA's "Common Law," as a rebellious cop and ladies man
Why He's Hot: Those gorgeous eyes, that charismatic smile, his overconfident swagger—I could go on. Ealy's been in the business for more than a decade now. While his career picked up in '02 when he debuted in the black cinema classic Barbershop, and it appeared he was finally getting his shot in the short-lived Showtime crime drama "Sleeper Cell" three years later, it wasn't until the even more short-lived ABC conspiracy series "FlashForward" that people started to take notice. Before you know it he was co-starring in the dramatic adaptation of For Colored Girls, guest-starring as an enterprising lawyer in CBS's "The Good Wife," and starring in the hit rom-com adaptation of Steve Harvey's Think Like a Man. His new USA series is just another stepping stone in the right direction.
What's Next: The dramatic indie Unconditional with Lynn Collins (John Carter), and the rom-com drama About Last Night with Regina Hall (Think Like a Man), Joy Bryant ("Parenthood"), and comedian Kevin Hart.
Nathan Parsons
Age: 24
Summer Series/Character: ABC Family's "Bunheads," as a part-time bartender, full-time nomad and zen surfer
Why He's Hot: Come on? Seriously? He could've been a silent movie actor cause I could care less what he's saying. Normally surfer-speak sounds like a bunch of lazy mantras laced together by weed, but while staring at this dude you would glady consume the crap his character spews and eagerly ask for a second serving if only to retain his shirtless attention for a few more seconds.
What's Next: Hopefully, he'll be back next season in spite of his seemingly final bon-voyage-sex with Michelle.
Age: 29
Summer Series/Character: ABC's "Rookie Blue," as an ex-soldier-turned-cop, who returns to rekindle his childhood romance with the Ice Queen Gail.
Why He's Hot: In the first episode we're introduced to his character Nick, he dives into a river to apprehend a kidnapper. Some would call that irresponsible, but given that he had the balls to, I like to think of it as badass. Nick may respect authority more than most of his fellow rookies, but when he breaks the rules, it isn't because of pride or rebelliousness, but because of honor and duty, making him a whole different kind of bad boy. The one you can rely on.
What's Next: Next season of "Rookie Blue," where I'm sure things will get romantically complicated as Nick starts to get closer to Andy.
Richard Ayoade
Age: 35
Summer Movie/Character: The Watch, the sex-obsessed voice-of-reason amongst a band of alien-hunting suburbanites.
Why He's Hot: Surprisingly, not because of his accent. It's more his comedic delivery. His tone is apologetic, innocent, and timid. He sounds like he could voice a cautious mouse. It's adorable. And it makes everything he says adorable...even when what he says is incredibly raunchy and inappropriate. Think Jemaine Clement ("Flight of the Conchords") meets Stephen Mangan ("Episodes"), not Russell Brand meets Ricky Gervais.
What's Next: Nothing as of yet, but you could always rent all four seasons of "The IT Crowd" to hold you over.
Thursday, March 08, 2012
CRUSHWORTHY: David Clayton Rogers from "Jane by Design"
Where You've Seen Him: In the "Cougar Town" pilot as Jules first underaged love interest, the ABC Family rom-com Revenge of the Bridesmaids, and the ABC Family teen series "Jane by Design" as the older brother/legal guardian.
Why He's Crushworthy: He has an unorthodox comedic approach. It's almost like he says whatever dorky or "clever" thought that comes to mind and then waits either nervously or over-confidently for the person's reaction. It makes for an insecure, goofy, but sweet character—like a single dad who's desperate to be cool and relatable—leading to several scenes where it seems like he's the only one who doesn't get the joke. It's adorable.
Sunday, December 25, 2011
CRUSHWORTHY: Ryan Gosling
This year has blessed us with some seriously
crushworthy guys. So to countdown the 25 days until Christmas, each day
I'll put a spotlight on one actor we wish we could catch under the
mistletoe. In this case, Santa rewards the naughty and nice.
{DAY 25}
The Sexiest Man Alive // Ryan Gosling
I think we can all agree that Ryan was robbed this year when People magazine crowned Bradley Cooper the Sexiest Man Alive. First off, Cooper should've been given that royal honor in '09 when The Hangover swept the box office. Secondly, I think Gosling has been kicking ass since last year with the critically adored Blue Valentine, and continued to do so with this year's romantic crime thriller Drive, the romantic dramedy Crazy, Stupid, Love., and the political drama The Ides of March. He was a shoe-in.
I first noticed Gosling's Crushworthiness in 2007 when he was promoting Lars and the Real Girl on "Ellen." He taught her how to dance salsa music. You have no idea how epic it is to see someone of non-Latin descent not only be interested in dancing Spanish music, but also know how to dance it well. And then there was the added bonus that he's a dude, who are usually rhythmically challenged.
Plus, you can tell by all of his interviews, both print and television, that he has the greatest sense of humor, he's self-deprecating, and sweet. One fan actually created a tumblr where she adds pickup lines slash flirtatious statements to random photos of him that start with "Hey Girl...", like "Hey Girl, Thanks for cutting the sleeves off. Now, I can take you to the gun show." It's a shrine to the new public persona that he's developed with each role that he plays a smooth, debonaire, cooler-than-cool man that guys want to dress like and be friends with, and girls want to...mount. The six-pack display in the Crazy, Stupid, Love. trailers should've been enough to score him the honor. I mean, honestly, he was SO hot, he looked photoshopped!
The Sexiest Man Alive // Ryan Gosling
I think we can all agree that Ryan was robbed this year when People magazine crowned Bradley Cooper the Sexiest Man Alive. First off, Cooper should've been given that royal honor in '09 when The Hangover swept the box office. Secondly, I think Gosling has been kicking ass since last year with the critically adored Blue Valentine, and continued to do so with this year's romantic crime thriller Drive, the romantic dramedy Crazy, Stupid, Love., and the political drama The Ides of March. He was a shoe-in.
I first noticed Gosling's Crushworthiness in 2007 when he was promoting Lars and the Real Girl on "Ellen." He taught her how to dance salsa music. You have no idea how epic it is to see someone of non-Latin descent not only be interested in dancing Spanish music, but also know how to dance it well. And then there was the added bonus that he's a dude, who are usually rhythmically challenged.
Plus, you can tell by all of his interviews, both print and television, that he has the greatest sense of humor, he's self-deprecating, and sweet. One fan actually created a tumblr where she adds pickup lines slash flirtatious statements to random photos of him that start with "Hey Girl...", like "Hey Girl, Thanks for cutting the sleeves off. Now, I can take you to the gun show." It's a shrine to the new public persona that he's developed with each role that he plays a smooth, debonaire, cooler-than-cool man that guys want to dress like and be friends with, and girls want to...mount. The six-pack display in the Crazy, Stupid, Love. trailers should've been enough to score him the honor. I mean, honestly, he was SO hot, he looked photoshopped!
Saturday, December 24, 2011
CRUSHWORTHY: Henry Cavill
This year has blessed us with some seriously
crushworthy guys. So to countdown the 25 days until Christmas, each day
I'll put a spotlight on one actor we wish we could catch under the
mistletoe. In this case, Santa rewards the naughty and nice.
{DAY 24}
The Hero // Henry Cavill
The search for Superman was long and arduous, but when the producers finally decided on who would play the invincible alien, they chose a Brit. He became apart of a new trend. Our superheroes were all being cast from across the pond, from Batman (Christian Bale) to Spider-Man (Andrew Garfield). Fanboys were not pleased. Luckily, Cavill actually looks the part, and worked hard to look it even more. Paparazzi snapped topless shots of him on set and the studio released a photo of him in costume. From then on the anti-foreigner chatter died down, and the skepticism mutated into anticipation.
But I was never quite sold on it all. I had yet to see Cavill in anything that would suggest he could carry an entire franchise on his own, while mastering an American accent and not looking like a complete fool in blue tights and a red cape. I never saw the oversexualized Showtime series "The Tudors," Woody Allen's oddball rom-com Whatever Works, or the romantic epic Tristan + Isolde, and I barely noticed him in the fantasy adventure Stardust or the revenge epic The Count of Monte Cristo. That's the main reason I decided to see Immortals. I mean, Tarsem Singh is an amazing director, but I am sort of worn out on all the barrage of recent mythology (Percy Jackson, Clash of the Titans, Thor, etc.). This was Cavill's first official lead role. And I think he did wonderfully. The story reminded me of Clash of the Titans, but Cavill's character was a lot more three-dimensional and easier to empathize with than Sam Worthington's. He nailed inspirational speeches, rash acts of revenge, unspeakable bravery in the face of certain defeat, and even romancing a virgin oracle. He's the dreamiest hero yet.
The Hero // Henry Cavill
The search for Superman was long and arduous, but when the producers finally decided on who would play the invincible alien, they chose a Brit. He became apart of a new trend. Our superheroes were all being cast from across the pond, from Batman (Christian Bale) to Spider-Man (Andrew Garfield). Fanboys were not pleased. Luckily, Cavill actually looks the part, and worked hard to look it even more. Paparazzi snapped topless shots of him on set and the studio released a photo of him in costume. From then on the anti-foreigner chatter died down, and the skepticism mutated into anticipation.
But I was never quite sold on it all. I had yet to see Cavill in anything that would suggest he could carry an entire franchise on his own, while mastering an American accent and not looking like a complete fool in blue tights and a red cape. I never saw the oversexualized Showtime series "The Tudors," Woody Allen's oddball rom-com Whatever Works, or the romantic epic Tristan + Isolde, and I barely noticed him in the fantasy adventure Stardust or the revenge epic The Count of Monte Cristo. That's the main reason I decided to see Immortals. I mean, Tarsem Singh is an amazing director, but I am sort of worn out on all the barrage of recent mythology (Percy Jackson, Clash of the Titans, Thor, etc.). This was Cavill's first official lead role. And I think he did wonderfully. The story reminded me of Clash of the Titans, but Cavill's character was a lot more three-dimensional and easier to empathize with than Sam Worthington's. He nailed inspirational speeches, rash acts of revenge, unspeakable bravery in the face of certain defeat, and even romancing a virgin oracle. He's the dreamiest hero yet.
Friday, December 23, 2011
CRUSHWORTHY: Luke Evans
This year has blessed us with some seriously
crushworthy guys. So to countdown the 25 days until Christmas, each day
I'll put a spotlight on one actor we wish we could catch under the
mistletoe. In this case, Santa rewards the naughty and nice.
{DAY 23}
The Emoter // Luke Evans
I've been hearing about Luke Evans for a while now. I can't recall why or for what films, but I do know that I made a mental note to see him in action. The first film I saw him in was Clash of the Titans. He played Apollo. It was brief, but he definitely had a strong screen presence. The film where he really made a great impression though was Immortals, where he played Zeus. There's something about his chiseled jaw, piercing hazel eyes, and slicked back mane that makes him seem regal and authoritative. Even though he's only a few years older than Henry Cavill (and the rest of the actors who played his children), you totally bought their father-son relationship. He seems to carry the weight of the world on his shoulders and take the responsibility very seriously. This visible burden was also obvious in The Three Musketeers, where he played the promiscuous yet religious musketeer Aramis, and also the little-seen crime drama Blitz, where he played a detective who steps up and cares for his drug-addicted one-night stand after her friend dies trying to save her.
It's easy for British actors to rely on their accent to do most of their acting, but Evans emotes more than he speaks. I wouldn't be surprised if producers hired him more for his facial reactions than anything else. Either way, he's definitely proven to be a hot commodity, especially when action, mystery, and adventure are involved. Next year, we can see him in the Edgar Allan Poe mystery The Raven, and the Peter Jackson adapted Lord of the Rings prequel The Hobbit. The true test though will be in his first lead role in the adaptation of J. Saunders Elmore's The Amateur American, where he'll play an American who is framed for murder in Paris.
The Emoter // Luke Evans
I've been hearing about Luke Evans for a while now. I can't recall why or for what films, but I do know that I made a mental note to see him in action. The first film I saw him in was Clash of the Titans. He played Apollo. It was brief, but he definitely had a strong screen presence. The film where he really made a great impression though was Immortals, where he played Zeus. There's something about his chiseled jaw, piercing hazel eyes, and slicked back mane that makes him seem regal and authoritative. Even though he's only a few years older than Henry Cavill (and the rest of the actors who played his children), you totally bought their father-son relationship. He seems to carry the weight of the world on his shoulders and take the responsibility very seriously. This visible burden was also obvious in The Three Musketeers, where he played the promiscuous yet religious musketeer Aramis, and also the little-seen crime drama Blitz, where he played a detective who steps up and cares for his drug-addicted one-night stand after her friend dies trying to save her.
It's easy for British actors to rely on their accent to do most of their acting, but Evans emotes more than he speaks. I wouldn't be surprised if producers hired him more for his facial reactions than anything else. Either way, he's definitely proven to be a hot commodity, especially when action, mystery, and adventure are involved. Next year, we can see him in the Edgar Allan Poe mystery The Raven, and the Peter Jackson adapted Lord of the Rings prequel The Hobbit. The true test though will be in his first lead role in the adaptation of J. Saunders Elmore's The Amateur American, where he'll play an American who is framed for murder in Paris.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
CRUSHWORTHY: Tom Hardy
This year has blessed us with some seriously
crushworthy guys. So to countdown the 25 days until Christmas, each day
I'll put a spotlight on one actor we wish we could catch under the
mistletoe. In this case, Santa rewards the naughty and nice.
{DAY 22}
The Meathead // Tom Hardy
You may not realize this but Tom Hardy has been in this business for 10 years. His devilish stare, pouty lips, and British tongue have appeared in "Band of Brothers," Black Hawk Down, Star Trek: Nemesis, Layer Cake, Marie Antoinette, Sucker Punch, and RocknRolla. His breakout role was the title character of 2006's psychological prison drama Bronson. It was the first time he was on display, both physically and emotionally. The critics ate it up. His next project was Inception. He took a backseat to Leonardo DiCaprio, Joseph Gordon Levitt, and Ellen Page, but by the trailer alone, audiences were already smitten with Hardy.
This year, he's built up incredible buzz for his family slash boxing slash war drama Warrior, opposite another breakout star Joel Edgerton. They were perfectly paired as brothers. They've managed to do what Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenneger only dreamed of doing: believably delivering a powerful and emotional performance even though they look like brawny meatheads. That's the most surprising aspect of Hardy's success. Because of the nature of his last few films, he's had to maintain this muscular build that's more customary for action films like heist and superhero films, not suspense thrillers and indie dramas. Audiences normally disregard such body-conscious actors as just part of the scenery, but I think Hardy's accent allows him to play both intellects and muscle. It allows him to melt into vulnerable characters, like the lovesick assassin in Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy.
Next year though Hardy will give himself over to commercialization, fighting over Reese Witherspoon in the action rom-com This Means War opposite Chris Pine, pairing up with Shia Labeouf in the crime drama The Wettest County, and then reteaming with Christopher Nolan in The Dark Knight Rises, the long-waited finale to the Batman saga, as Bane. He'll be under a mountain of scrutiny as he'll have to deliver a performance that's either equal to or better than the belated Heath Ledger's infamous Joker—all while wearing a muzzle. However, I have a feeling Hardy doesn't feel the pressure. That's half his appeal. He's super chill, like he never has a care in the world.
The Meathead // Tom Hardy
You may not realize this but Tom Hardy has been in this business for 10 years. His devilish stare, pouty lips, and British tongue have appeared in "Band of Brothers," Black Hawk Down, Star Trek: Nemesis, Layer Cake, Marie Antoinette, Sucker Punch, and RocknRolla. His breakout role was the title character of 2006's psychological prison drama Bronson. It was the first time he was on display, both physically and emotionally. The critics ate it up. His next project was Inception. He took a backseat to Leonardo DiCaprio, Joseph Gordon Levitt, and Ellen Page, but by the trailer alone, audiences were already smitten with Hardy.
This year, he's built up incredible buzz for his family slash boxing slash war drama Warrior, opposite another breakout star Joel Edgerton. They were perfectly paired as brothers. They've managed to do what Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenneger only dreamed of doing: believably delivering a powerful and emotional performance even though they look like brawny meatheads. That's the most surprising aspect of Hardy's success. Because of the nature of his last few films, he's had to maintain this muscular build that's more customary for action films like heist and superhero films, not suspense thrillers and indie dramas. Audiences normally disregard such body-conscious actors as just part of the scenery, but I think Hardy's accent allows him to play both intellects and muscle. It allows him to melt into vulnerable characters, like the lovesick assassin in Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy.
Next year though Hardy will give himself over to commercialization, fighting over Reese Witherspoon in the action rom-com This Means War opposite Chris Pine, pairing up with Shia Labeouf in the crime drama The Wettest County, and then reteaming with Christopher Nolan in The Dark Knight Rises, the long-waited finale to the Batman saga, as Bane. He'll be under a mountain of scrutiny as he'll have to deliver a performance that's either equal to or better than the belated Heath Ledger's infamous Joker—all while wearing a muzzle. However, I have a feeling Hardy doesn't feel the pressure. That's half his appeal. He's super chill, like he never has a care in the world.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
CRUSHWORTHY: Joshua Bowman from "Revenge"
This year has blessed us with some seriously
crushworthy guys. So to countdown the 25 days until Christmas, each day
I'll put a spotlight on one actor we wish we could catch under the
mistletoe. In this case, Santa rewards the naughty and nice.
{DAY 21}
The Ladies Magnet // Joshua Bowman
I'll be honest, the only reason I'm posting this particular actor is because ALL of my friends think he's hot. I don't. He kind of looks Cro-Magnon to me, and at the same time too much of a pretty boy. But I can see the appeal. Viewers have discovered him on the ABC hit drama "Revenge" and the idea of falling for the rich, hot next door neighbor with a rebellious streak and a desire to stand up for what's right is very attractive. Career-wise, Bowman has yet to prove himself. And if it turns out that the supposedly dead body on the beach really is his character, then he won't get the longevity on the series that he requires to make a name for himself. Something tells me that he won't disappear off the face of the earth either way. Fans may not know this, but Bowman isn't just the viewers' choice but a frequent celebrity choice as well. He's been romantically linked to costars Cassie Scerbo ("Make It or Break It") and Miley Cyrus (upcoming So Undercover), and the late Amy Winehouse.
The Ladies Magnet // Joshua Bowman
I'll be honest, the only reason I'm posting this particular actor is because ALL of my friends think he's hot. I don't. He kind of looks Cro-Magnon to me, and at the same time too much of a pretty boy. But I can see the appeal. Viewers have discovered him on the ABC hit drama "Revenge" and the idea of falling for the rich, hot next door neighbor with a rebellious streak and a desire to stand up for what's right is very attractive. Career-wise, Bowman has yet to prove himself. And if it turns out that the supposedly dead body on the beach really is his character, then he won't get the longevity on the series that he requires to make a name for himself. Something tells me that he won't disappear off the face of the earth either way. Fans may not know this, but Bowman isn't just the viewers' choice but a frequent celebrity choice as well. He's been romantically linked to costars Cassie Scerbo ("Make It or Break It") and Miley Cyrus (upcoming So Undercover), and the late Amy Winehouse.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
CRUSHWORTHY: Jake M. Johnson from "New Girl"
This year has blessed us with some seriously
crushworthy guys. So to countdown the 25 days until Christmas, each day
I'll put a spotlight on one actor we wish we could catch under the
mistletoe. In this case, Santa rewards the naughty and nice.
{DAY 20}
The Wallflower // Jake M. Johnson
Jake is a pretty unassuming guy. You probably hardly noticed him in the untraditional love story Paper Heart as Charlyne Yi's documentary director and moral support. Yi and Michael Cera's quirky courting ritual was probably too distracting. But who knew that it would turn out to be perfect training for Jake's breakout role as the emotionally-reluctant anti-social Nick, who often wrangles and advises the quirky lead character on the new FOX series "New Girl"?
When we're first introduced to him, he's this blubbering mess that was recently dumped by his on-again-off-again girlfriend. You have to understand how annoying he was originally. I have a horrible memory. Especially when it comes to names. But he was SO annoying that I actually remember the name of the girl he repeatedly whined about for what seemed like an eternity but was only three episodes.
Post-Caroline (and inevitably pre-Jess) Nick is a lot less sensitive. In fact, I would go so far as to characterize him as standoffish. He refuses to participate in goofy pastimes or to accept apologies or assistance of any kind. He's like a grumpy old man. And it got worse when Paul (Justin Long), Jess's new boyfriend, entered the picture. Nick was the only one who didn't like him and had no legitimate reason for not liking him. Jess had to practically mine kindness out of him. And it appears she's wearing him down.
Jake does an impressive job of hinting at the subtle struggle Nick's having with trying not to fall for Jess, but he's about as ready to start something serious as she is. He also succeeds in occasionally acting as a window through which viewers perceive his roommates. One minute he's onboard with the gang and the next he's trying to distance himself from their weirdness. He's very good at getting a lot across with simple gestures and facial expressions. He's the kind of actor you have to watch more than listen to. Thankfully, he's easy on the eyes.
The Wallflower // Jake M. Johnson
Jake is a pretty unassuming guy. You probably hardly noticed him in the untraditional love story Paper Heart as Charlyne Yi's documentary director and moral support. Yi and Michael Cera's quirky courting ritual was probably too distracting. But who knew that it would turn out to be perfect training for Jake's breakout role as the emotionally-reluctant anti-social Nick, who often wrangles and advises the quirky lead character on the new FOX series "New Girl"?
When we're first introduced to him, he's this blubbering mess that was recently dumped by his on-again-off-again girlfriend. You have to understand how annoying he was originally. I have a horrible memory. Especially when it comes to names. But he was SO annoying that I actually remember the name of the girl he repeatedly whined about for what seemed like an eternity but was only three episodes.
Post-Caroline (and inevitably pre-Jess) Nick is a lot less sensitive. In fact, I would go so far as to characterize him as standoffish. He refuses to participate in goofy pastimes or to accept apologies or assistance of any kind. He's like a grumpy old man. And it got worse when Paul (Justin Long), Jess's new boyfriend, entered the picture. Nick was the only one who didn't like him and had no legitimate reason for not liking him. Jess had to practically mine kindness out of him. And it appears she's wearing him down.
Jake does an impressive job of hinting at the subtle struggle Nick's having with trying not to fall for Jess, but he's about as ready to start something serious as she is. He also succeeds in occasionally acting as a window through which viewers perceive his roommates. One minute he's onboard with the gang and the next he's trying to distance himself from their weirdness. He's very good at getting a lot across with simple gestures and facial expressions. He's the kind of actor you have to watch more than listen to. Thankfully, he's easy on the eyes.
Monday, December 19, 2011
CRUSHWORTHY: Charlie Cox from "Boardwalk Empire"
This year has blessed us with some seriously
crushworthy guys. So to countdown the 25 days until Christmas, each day
I'll put a spotlight on one actor we wish we could catch under the
mistletoe. In this case, Santa rewards the naughty and nice.
{DAY 19}
The Brit // Charlie Cox
I've seen Casanova and I've seen Stardust, and I have to be honest with you, Charlie Cox has never made that much of an impression on me. He's kind of cute and his skittish behavior was endearing, but not exactly leading man worthy. It would appear though that Cox is more of a character actor. He shines with meatier roles. And he found one in "Boardwalk Empire." Joining Scorsese's HBO series as the Irish assassin who becomes Nucky's new "driver" was the best career move he could've ever made. He may get five minutes of screen time per episode, but they are unforgettable minutes. His quiet confidence and straightforward approach to asking for what he wants—amidst a city full of people who beat around the bush—is chilling. Cox has obviously grown into his own as an actor, and just in time.
The Brit // Charlie Cox
I've seen Casanova and I've seen Stardust, and I have to be honest with you, Charlie Cox has never made that much of an impression on me. He's kind of cute and his skittish behavior was endearing, but not exactly leading man worthy. It would appear though that Cox is more of a character actor. He shines with meatier roles. And he found one in "Boardwalk Empire." Joining Scorsese's HBO series as the Irish assassin who becomes Nucky's new "driver" was the best career move he could've ever made. He may get five minutes of screen time per episode, but they are unforgettable minutes. His quiet confidence and straightforward approach to asking for what he wants—amidst a city full of people who beat around the bush—is chilling. Cox has obviously grown into his own as an actor, and just in time.
Sunday, December 18, 2011
CRUSHWORTHY: Chris Zylka from "The Secret Circle"
This year has blessed us with some seriously
crushworthy guys. So to countdown the 25 days until Christmas, each day
I'll put a spotlight on one actor we wish we could catch under the
mistletoe. In this case, Santa rewards the naughty and nice.
{DAY 18}
The Bad Boy // Chris Zylka
When I first saw Zylka in the short-lived TV adaptation of "10 Things I Hate About You," I thought there was something a little off about him. He was playing this dopey, narcissistic pretty boy who was the most popular guy in school and therefore the object of everyone's obsession. As it turns out, Zylka's talents were being completely wasted as a nice and dimwitted character. It would appear he has a knack for playing the devious sort. It dawned on me when I saw him in "The Secret Circle" playing a treacherous witch-turned-witch-hunter. Despite the blonde hair and chiseled good looks, you could see the evil in his eyes as he plotted and schemed. He's the ultimate bad boy, because he hides in plain sight. I look forward to seeing Zylka as a bully in the upcoming The Amazing Spider-Man.
The Bad Boy // Chris Zylka
When I first saw Zylka in the short-lived TV adaptation of "10 Things I Hate About You," I thought there was something a little off about him. He was playing this dopey, narcissistic pretty boy who was the most popular guy in school and therefore the object of everyone's obsession. As it turns out, Zylka's talents were being completely wasted as a nice and dimwitted character. It would appear he has a knack for playing the devious sort. It dawned on me when I saw him in "The Secret Circle" playing a treacherous witch-turned-witch-hunter. Despite the blonde hair and chiseled good looks, you could see the evil in his eyes as he plotted and schemed. He's the ultimate bad boy, because he hides in plain sight. I look forward to seeing Zylka as a bully in the upcoming The Amazing Spider-Man.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
CRUSHWORTHY: Josh Dallas from "Once Upon a Time"
This year has blessed us with some seriously
crushworthy guys. So to countdown the 25 days until Christmas, each day
I'll put a spotlight on one actor we wish we could catch under the
mistletoe. In this case, Santa rewards the naughty and nice.
{DAY 17}
Prince Charming // Josh Dallas
Casting the role of Prince Charming is a tricky task. The world isn't by any means made up of blonde, blue-eyed, statuesque, white men, for if it were, everyone would have a prince of their own. It's especially difficult to find someone who would fit seamlessly within the real world and the fantasy world. Alas, producers lucked out when they stumbled on newbie Dallas, who's captured the bravery and fearlessness of a knight, and the astonishing wonder of discovering a damsel in distress he falls madly in love with. Viewers of "Once Upon a Time" know that the prince's story is much more complicated than that, and that Dallas must not only play a prince and an amnesia patient, but also the prince's twin, a pauper forced to impersonate his brother and become the hero his kingdom needs him to be. From the moment we're introduced to his amnesiac persona, we were hooked on his tragic love story. Dallas has done very well to deliver three different, yet seamless, portrayals, making the ladies swoon for every one.
Prince Charming // Josh Dallas
Casting the role of Prince Charming is a tricky task. The world isn't by any means made up of blonde, blue-eyed, statuesque, white men, for if it were, everyone would have a prince of their own. It's especially difficult to find someone who would fit seamlessly within the real world and the fantasy world. Alas, producers lucked out when they stumbled on newbie Dallas, who's captured the bravery and fearlessness of a knight, and the astonishing wonder of discovering a damsel in distress he falls madly in love with. Viewers of "Once Upon a Time" know that the prince's story is much more complicated than that, and that Dallas must not only play a prince and an amnesia patient, but also the prince's twin, a pauper forced to impersonate his brother and become the hero his kingdom needs him to be. From the moment we're introduced to his amnesiac persona, we were hooked on his tragic love story. Dallas has done very well to deliver three different, yet seamless, portrayals, making the ladies swoon for every one.
Friday, December 16, 2011
CRUSHWORTHY: Nick Wechsler from "Revenge"
This year has blessed us with some seriously
crushworthy guys. So to countdown the 25 days until Christmas, each day
I'll put a spotlight on one actor we wish we could catch under the
mistletoe. In this case, Santa rewards the naughty and nice.
{DAY 16}
The Boy Next Door // Nick Wechsler
Last year, I spotted Wechsler on an episode of the since cancelled supernatural series "Past Life." It took a while for it to register that what raspily snarled before me was a grown up Kyle from "Roswell." I was astounded. There was a time when I found Wechsler to be the least attractive actor on a series (it went Brendan Fehr, Jason Behr, Colin Hanks, then Wechsler), and now he's the most—in my opinion anyway.
This year he was cast in ABC's hit melodrama "Revenge," playing the childhood crush/bff of the lead character, who's returned to her hometown to exact revenge on the people who framed her father for treason and damned her to the life of an orphaned outcast. His character has no idea that the girl he's been waiting for for the last 20 years is the new girl in town. And he's so desperate to have her back that he believes an imposter when she slithers into his life.
While Wechsler may still be playing second banana to the heartthrob, as his girl seduces her enemy's son, he's definitely The One this time. He's the only one who knows her for who she really is. He's the only one who can save her from herself. And he's the only one whose hands aren't mucked by greed or envy—for now. The series's opener suggested that the sweet, caring boy-next-door we've been seeing this entire season will one day murder his competition. Murderer or not, I look forward to the steamy scene of Amanda and Jack officially reuniting. A girl's gotta live vicariously.
The Boy Next Door // Nick Wechsler
Last year, I spotted Wechsler on an episode of the since cancelled supernatural series "Past Life." It took a while for it to register that what raspily snarled before me was a grown up Kyle from "Roswell." I was astounded. There was a time when I found Wechsler to be the least attractive actor on a series (it went Brendan Fehr, Jason Behr, Colin Hanks, then Wechsler), and now he's the most—in my opinion anyway.
This year he was cast in ABC's hit melodrama "Revenge," playing the childhood crush/bff of the lead character, who's returned to her hometown to exact revenge on the people who framed her father for treason and damned her to the life of an orphaned outcast. His character has no idea that the girl he's been waiting for for the last 20 years is the new girl in town. And he's so desperate to have her back that he believes an imposter when she slithers into his life.
While Wechsler may still be playing second banana to the heartthrob, as his girl seduces her enemy's son, he's definitely The One this time. He's the only one who knows her for who she really is. He's the only one who can save her from herself. And he's the only one whose hands aren't mucked by greed or envy—for now. The series's opener suggested that the sweet, caring boy-next-door we've been seeing this entire season will one day murder his competition. Murderer or not, I look forward to the steamy scene of Amanda and Jack officially reuniting. A girl's gotta live vicariously.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
CRUSHWORTHY: Kirk Acevedo from "Prime Suspect"
This year has blessed us with some seriously crushworthy guys. So to countdown the 25 days until Christmas, each day I'll put a spotlight on one actor we wish we could catch under the mistletoe. In this case, Santa rewards the naughty and nice.
{DAY 15}
The Tough Guy // Kirk Acevedo
This 40-year-old Brooklynite wasn't very popular when he publicly berated "Fringe" writers for killing his character Charlie off in 2009. But after releasing an apology for his gruff reaction, he returned to the series, as it appears he would've anyway, to reprise his role in the alternate universe.
Acevedo, however, didn't put all of his eggs in one basket again. While he still moonlights on the sci-fi thriller, he went out for pilot season and got cast in the short-lived NBC series "Prime Suspect" this year, where he played one of the misogynist cops.
I have to say 90% of Acevedo's appeal is his accent. He's practically an endangered species, preserved from the 90s. The other 10% is his deadpan delivery of smart ass lines. He was bred for police procedurals. Here's hoping he gets cast in another one soon.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
CRUSHWORTHY: Ramon Rodriguez from "Charlie's Angels"
This year has blessed us with some seriously crushworthy guys. So to countdown the 25 days until Christmas, each day I'll put a spotlight on one actor we wish we could catch under the mistletoe. In this case, Santa rewards the naughty and nice.
{DAY 14}
The Latin Lover // Ramon Rodriguez
The 32-year-old Puerto Rican actor got his big break in Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, where he played the loud mouth, self-important hacker who overreacted to nearly everything. His character was a bit grating and cowardly, and not in the least bit attractive. Two years later he costarred in the pro-Army alien action film Battle Los Angeles as a stern lieutenant who goes above and beyond for his squad. I don't know if it was the uniform or the acts of courage, but he started to look a lot more appealing.
That's why I wasn't too bummed when I heard he was cast as Bosley in the recently cancelled "Charlie's Angels" series revival. The idea of it was ridiculous, especially since even this generation is accustomed to an old white guy playing the part. However, making Bosley young and attractive added an episodic romantic element to the series, which it would need to retain its female viewership. Although even that couldn't save the series, I don't think we've seen the last of Rodriguez. With every role, he gets more and more intriguing.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
CRUSHWORTHY: Jamie Dornan from "Once Upon a Time"
This year has blessed us with some seriously crushworthy guys. So to countdown the 25 days until Christmas, each day I'll put a spotlight on one actor we wish we could catch under the mistletoe. In this case, Santa rewards the naughty and nice.
{DAY 13}
The Dark Prince // Jamie Dornan
In spite of his gruff exterior on ABC's new series "Once Upon a Time," complete with scruffy beard and bad boy leather jacket, his character Sheriff Graham has a very docile demeanor. This weekend we learned that he was the infamous Huntsman who spared Snow White when he was sent to cut out her heart. Dornan was faced with the challenge of playing a conflicted soul, estranged to humans, beholden to the wolves who raised him, and in desperate need to feel something other than obligation. His story was heartbreaking, both figuratively and literally.
But that's not the reason he's Crushworthy. It has nothing to do with his performance or struggle, and everything to do with how exponentially hotter he gets with a beard and his Irish accent. His character bent the law for friends, slept with the enemy, and stole a kiss. The only reason viewers could forgive him so easily for his extremely recent transgressions is because of that brogue. Hell, he could probably get away with murder.
Monday, December 12, 2011
CRUSHWORTHY: Mike Vogel from "Pan Am"
This year has blessed us with some seriously
crushworthy guys. So to countdown the 25 days until Christmas, each day
I'll put a spotlight on one actor we wish we could catch under the
mistletoe. In this case, Santa rewards the naughty and nice.
{DAY 12}
The Time Traveler // Mike Vogel
I had my doubts about Vogel from the start—and I'm not just talking about his latest role on ABC's "Pan Am," where he replaced an actor from the pilot. I didn't like him in the skateboard indie Grind in '03 or as "the hot soccer coach" in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants in '05, or even as an unsupportive best friend in 2010's She's Out of My League. It wasn't until this year that he finally started to grow on me. Turns out he was born in the wrong decade.
Despite his modern looks and habitual slacker roles, Vogel was born to play system-bucking gentlemen from a different decade. I got my first peek of his new-found self-confidence in this summer's adaptation of The Help. He had less than five minutes of screen time, but in it, the 32-year-old actor seemed reformed.
Landing the lead on "Pan Am" clinched it though. It was there that he finally got to show what he was capable of. That he could play the lover and the fighter, and not just a two-dimensional dud. That he could be a leading man. In a new era, Vogel's body language changes and he evolves into a daredevil charmer who fights as hard for his beliefs as he does for his lady. He almost makes you wish you could go back in time.
The Time Traveler // Mike Vogel
I had my doubts about Vogel from the start—and I'm not just talking about his latest role on ABC's "Pan Am," where he replaced an actor from the pilot. I didn't like him in the skateboard indie Grind in '03 or as "the hot soccer coach" in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants in '05, or even as an unsupportive best friend in 2010's She's Out of My League. It wasn't until this year that he finally started to grow on me. Turns out he was born in the wrong decade.
Despite his modern looks and habitual slacker roles, Vogel was born to play system-bucking gentlemen from a different decade. I got my first peek of his new-found self-confidence in this summer's adaptation of The Help. He had less than five minutes of screen time, but in it, the 32-year-old actor seemed reformed.
Landing the lead on "Pan Am" clinched it though. It was there that he finally got to show what he was capable of. That he could play the lover and the fighter, and not just a two-dimensional dud. That he could be a leading man. In a new era, Vogel's body language changes and he evolves into a daredevil charmer who fights as hard for his beliefs as he does for his lady. He almost makes you wish you could go back in time.
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