Chris Pratt’s supporting role excellence shines in the 2008 film Wanted, where he showcased a darker, more complex side of his acting. While best known for leading roles in blockbuster franchises like Guardians of the Galaxy and Jurassic World throughout the past decade, Pratt’s performance in Wanted highlights his roots as a compelling supporting actor willing to embrace unsympathetic characters.
Wanted, currently among the top streaming films on Netflix, is a stylized action movie starring James McAvoy as Wesley, a seemingly ordinary office worker recruited into a secret circle of assassins with the extraordinary skill to curve bullets mid-air. Angelina Jolie also stars as a formidable assassin, bringing intense energy to the film’s hyper-stylized narrative. Among the main cast, Chris Pratt plays Barry, Wesley’s friend, who quickly proves to be far from loyal or trustworthy.
The Role of Barry: A Flawed Friend Brought to Life by Chris Pratt
In Wanted, Barry is the archetype of the “worst best friend,” a character who is superficially friendly but behind Wesley’s back acts with selfishness and betrayal. Pratt embodies Barry as a slick, fast-talking womanizer who is complete with an underhanded edge—he is also having an affair with Wesley’s girlfriend, Cathy, played by Kristen Hager. This character could have easily fallen flat, but Pratt’s portrayal combines arrogance and charm to create a highly memorable antagonist within a limited amount of screen time.
Though Barry’s appearances are brief, Pratt fully commits to the role’s unpleasantness, delivering a performance that balances comedic slyness and genuine disdain, making viewers both amused and frustrated. One of the film’s standout moments is when Wesley confronts Barry, delivering a satisfying retaliation that resonates as a pivotal scene. While Pratt has rarely been cast in similar antagonist roles since Wanted, the character remains a significant testament to his range.
Why Supporting Roles Highlight Chris Pratt’s Strength as an Actor
Though Chris Pratt has established himself as a huge star with leading roles such as Peter Quill (Star-Lord) in Guardians of the Galaxy and action-packed parts in Jurassic World and The Tomorrow War, his strongest performances have often been in supporting roles. This pattern is not a drawback but rather a clear indication of the essential contribution supporting characters make to cinema’s richest stories. Historically, iconic supporting roles like Samwise Gamgee from the Lord of the Rings series, Cliff Booth in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, and Mr. Miyagi in The Karate Kid have earned actors widespread recognition and prestigious awards. Actors like Brad Pitt and Octavia Spencer have also been celebrated for their gripping character roles, showing that secondary characters can steal the spotlight and define careers.
Pratt’s comedic timing and dramatic instincts often shine brightest when he has the opportunity to play layered supporting parts, but many of his leading roles have not fully utilized these talents. Films such as The Electric State or Passengers, despite his efforts, have not provided material that allows him to explore the depth of his abilities. Revisiting complex supporting roles like Barry could revitalize Pratt’s career by showcasing his versatility beyond his established blockbuster image. In this way, Pratt’s talents can receive the recognition they deserve and offer audiences performances rich with nuance and charisma.
Chris Pratt’s work in Wanted exemplifies how a well-crafted supporting character can establish an actor’s credibility and leave a lasting impression. This role allowed him to display a darker, more provocative side that contrasts with the more heroic or comedic personas for which he is known today. Its significance lies not only in Pratt’s adeptness but also in the broader reminder that supporting roles often hold the key to an actor’s true range and longevity.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does Chris Pratt’s son have a disability?
A. Jack Pratt was born early but has since gotten better. Chris Pratt and Anna Faris are thankful for his recovery. They often say he is as healthy as other kids his age.
Q. Is Chris Pratt’s religion?
A. Pratt grew up following the Lutheran religion. He later became involved with Jews for Jesus and eventually identified as a non-denominational Christian.
Q. Is Chris Pratt a vegan?
A. Pratt is one of several Marvel actors who follow a vegan diet.
