What a long, strange trip it's been since the first "Hangover" film dropped in 2009. Who could predict that an original comedy starring three mid-level actors would gross hundreds of millions around the world, or that it would become the new standard of bromance comedy, or that you'd actually want to drink more after seeing where alcohol had led the wolf-pack?
But less surprising is how the careers of the actors involved have taken off. Almost all of the primary actors in "The Hangover" have found increased success in the biz, whether it's as action stars, comedic bit players, or reality TV stars.
How far have they come, and where are they going? Find out after the jump!
Zach Galifianakis
"The Hangover's" breakout star floated for years in the alternative comedy scene as one of those perpetually hilarious comedians who never seemed to get a big break. His turn as man-child Alan sparked mainstream attention, as he was soon asked to play similar roles in films like "Due Date" and "Dinner for Schmucks" -- the clueless, awkward type prone to blurting out uncomfortable truths. And who could forget "G-Force," where he oversaw a group of CGI secret agent guinea pigs? But despite the influx of studio cash, Galifianakis hasn't turned away from his indie roots. He still made time for new appearances on the wacked-out "Tim and Eric Awesome Show Great Job!" and even took a dramatic role in Oscar front-runner "Up in the Air" and quirky comedy "It's Kind of a Funny Story."
Bradley Cooper
Of his increased career opportunities following "The Hangover," Cooper told Shave Magazine: "More doors have been opened for sure but it?s not like I sit back with a cigar on Monday morning and go through the scripts that have been offered." Still, it's hard to imagine the pre-"Hangover" Cooper -- the one who filled parts in quickly cancelled TV shows like "Jack and Bobby" and "Kitchen Confidential" -- nabbing starring roles in "The A-Team" and "Limitless," even though his brash swagger and rugged look were basically the same. But as Hollywood looks for new A-listers to replace a rapidly aging set more interested in acting challenges than explosions and one-liners (you're okay with us, Brad), Cooper's cut in the classic mold of alpha male braggadocio. He's rumored to play the title character in "The Crow" remake, eyeliner and all.
Ed Helms
Perhaps the least dynamic of the wolf-pack members, Helms has mostly stuck to his excellent role of Andy Bernard on "The Office," a part which may grow in prominence as Bernard is one of the characters in the running to take over Dunder-Mifflin Scranton following Steve Carrell's exit from the show. He also starred in "Cedar Rapids," which was beloved by critics if not the box office. His versatility as a reasonable straight man makes him a great foil for wacky characters everywhere, so it's unsurprising to see him continue to flourish without overstaying his welcome.
Ken Jeong
Following "The Hangover," Jeong's role on "Community" continued to increase, and he was seen in national ads for Adidas along NBA stars Derrick Rose and Dwight Howard. He also just served as the host of the Billboard Music Awards, a long way away from the medical degree he earned in the mid-90's. But as Jeong has repeatedly stated, he was ecstatic just to be known as the doctor from "Knocked Up." Everything else is gravy.
Mike Tyson
"The Hangover" saved Mike Tyson's life. Take it from him: he said that the film convinced him to clean up following a looooooong history of problems that we don't need to recount. The Tyson seen since then has seemed more at peace, even following the tragic death of his daughter in 2009. Right now, he stars in the unlikely Animal Planet hit, "Taking on Tyson," which follows him and the pigeons he's taken care of for years. Strange, to be sure, but it's a welcome change of pace from the Tyson who served as America's evil uncle during the Clinton years.
Tell us what you think of the "Hangover" stars' journey over the past few years in the comments section and on Twitter!
Source: http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2011/05/24/the-hangover-part-ii-bradley-cooper-zach-galifianakis-ed-helms/
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