Where have all the movie men gone?

Alissa — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 13:49:08 GMT

I'm 34 and I don't get the hype over all these young men either. I look at them as being "cute" as in I could have been their babysitter and look how they've grown up.....Where are the SEXY men???? I love men with a little character and a look that says I've had experience!

Where have all the movie men gone?

Allison — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 14:01:48 GMT

Real man = Gerard Butler

Where have all the movie men gone?

Ann — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 14:38:00 GMT

Thank you for speaking out for the rest of us. Not all of us want high school heroes. Give me Daniel Craig any day over Zach Efron. It's dismaying when even TV shows are intentionally skewed young, and older (god forbid, you're over 35!) characters get the boot.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Carol Smith — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 14:44:44 GMT

I agree...none of these boy/men are going to pick up a hammer and build an escape vessel the way Harrison Ford or Tom Hanks could. It is doubtful that most of them could even locate a hammer in a hardware store, let alone know what it is used for. Have any of them even sprouted a chest hair? When I dream of being rescued - my hero's face requires twice daily shaving; has wrinkles that honor his age; and knowing eyes that speak volumes about the wisdom that defines his character.

Where have all the movie men gone?

newshound nh — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 14:46:13 GMT

Robert Redford, Harrison Ford, Sean Connery. Other than George Clooney (and Hugh Laurie on TV), is there anyone who can fasten their bootstraps? And let's not even go back to Gregory Peck, Jimmy Stewart, James Cagney, Cary Grant and Clark Gable! It's time Hollywood puts talent before cutsey looks (although all the above are/were hunky chunks!) and gives us some real men on screen! I'm not going to spend money to watch some teenager or baby-faced 20-something on the screen. It's a treasure to be changing channels on the satellite and find a gem with someone like William Hurt or Benjamin Bratt in it. Let's get some quality acting with adult actors!

Where have all the movie men gone?

CS, Florida — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 14:49:31 GMT

Holy crap do I agree. Having always felt a kinship with Jolie, as I never figured female meant less than in anyway, precisely the opposite, I also never have been one for the pretty boys. In fact the prepubescent thing annoys me alot in male actors, its like why am I supposed to care about these people? I totally agree about Labeouf and the rest of them. Also have been a Clooney addict for like over a decade, so I swear I almost could have written this myself, and this coming from a 26 year old. I don't think its age that determins the author's preferences as much as quality, some women like a little man in their male fantasy figures, we're just kooks that way. :)

Where have all the movie men gone?

Tony Lamb, Pensacola, FL. — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 14:52:20 GMT

Paige:

I completely agree with your assessment. Masculine movie heroes have taken a dramatic turn since I was a kid. But the discordances you see in LaBeouf and Fox, or Jolie and McAvoy, I remember seeing in John Wayne and Katharine Hepburn, or Scarlett and Rhett, or Bogart and Bergman.

Man, I miss those moives!

Where have all the movie men gone?

A Moorhead, Indiana — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 15:09:23 GMT

Let the casting GODS be aware that it's time to stop catering to 16-20 yr olds. Someone take stock in a truly GIFTED Michael Emerson that can play MUCH more than a bad, evil psycho killer. There's a man that can take control and order!

Where have all the movie men gone?

Ann, St. Petersburg, Florida — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 15:51:20 GMT

I thnk that it's all part of the emasculation of men in our culture. Manliness and masculinity are disappearing. Men are morphing into metro-sexuals and becoming more adrogynous. They are becoming dispensible, and soon will be like the drone bees, only here for a specific function and then sent off to die. The men of the golden era of Hollywood could not make it in today's Hollywood.

Where have all the movie men gone?

MY, Portland, Oregon — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 16:09:13 GMT

I'm going to be the discordent voice in all these comments and say I don't mind looking at young pretty men, Radcliffe in particular! I'm looking forward to seeing him in something other than Potter movies but until then, i'll have to settle for that. As for the rest, time will tell. It took a while for those other guys to come out of the woodwork too.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Naomi, Arlington, TX — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 16:12:43 GMT

All I have to say is that I'm 27, and I prefer George Clooney (my dream man), Robert Downey, Jr. (my fantasy/nerd crush) and Daniel Craig (one word... yummy) over any of the other men named in this article. Hey Hollywood, get rid of the young boys, bring on the men!

Where have all the movie men gone?

CS, Florida — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 16:25:25 GMT

Thank you someone for mentioning the classic greats. And as Naomi demonstrated, it isn't age exclusive. I remember still being a kid and while being nuts about both the book and movie of Gone with the Wind, I found this book with screen stills of the making of the movie and there was this particular picture of Clark Gable. Even the memory is still very clear, and you better believe I still have the book. Its a complexity/quality thing, there's a person, a MAN worthy there to devote your time to. No, the baby faces bore me as there's nothing seemingly there to sink your teeth into. A single instance onscreen by any of the good ones has more impact to me than a full movie with the baby faces. Craig in Casino Royale when he's tied to the chair and only selective parts were visible was more of a hormonal punch than most full movies of even Matt Damon's, and I even like him.

Where have all the movie men gone?

CB, Greensboro, NC — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 16:54:10 GMT

Somebody please convince Joaquin Phoenix to come back to acting!

Where have all the movie men gone?

Jonathan, Palm Beach Gardens — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 17:25:58 GMT

When I read this article and the posted comments, I can't help but laugh a little that women are now starting to go through the very thing that guys have been seeing for years. Hollywood has turned it's back on real women (with a few exceptions), and opts to cast scrawny eating-disorder victims or uninspiring plain-Jane's. I’ve often lamented the fact that well build, talented, 'Full Grown' women like Jessica Biel, Ali Landry and Selma Hiyak seem to be stuck with table scraps while the Maggie Gyllenhalls and Kirsten Dunst’s of the world pull huge rolls. Hollywood may think that a size 0 is a little on the chunky side, but I'll take Jenny Love and "her size 2 hips" over the 87lbs of supposedly hot Eliza Dusku any time.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Debbie — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 17:26:03 GMT

I'm not sure I'm going to articulate this well, but I'm going to try. We left a generation home alone. Practically forcing them to raise themselves as we met the needs of our own inner child. For all the reasons that children have matured earlier, this is the result. Todays teens want to see themselves up on the silver screen and because they are a more mature bunch than they were a generation ago, Hollywood has risen to meet their needs and like it or not, this is the group that holds the purse strings because our solution to leaving our kids alone to raise themselves as we searched for ourselves is/was to throw money at them in the belief that we are giving them a better life than we had. At 50 plus, I'll skip Transformers, Twilight and their ilk. Do I wish there were more films representative of my generation? Yes. Though sadly, I'm afraid that we are and this is its legacy.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Chad, Hampton, Iowa — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 17:30:08 GMT

Stallone, Arnold, Van Damme, Clint, Harrison, Gibson, Connery, Wayne, Kurt Russell...man I miss there movies.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Katie Spring, TX — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 17:35:00 GMT

I totally agree with your post! I do have to break out and mention that I love Ryan Reynolds - he was quite nice to look at in Wolverine...But, I do miss the "craggy"/rugged good looks of the other stars you mentioned...None of the new boys (and yes, they are boys...even though I am only 34, that is what they are to me) can stand up to George Clooney, Robert Downey Jr, Sean Connery, Hugh Jackman (where is he on your list??) and others like them.

I also agree that the youngsters cannot hold a light to the stars of the "olden days." I remember seeing Gone with the Wind for the first time (in junior high?) and thinking that Clark Gable was awfully nice to look at.

I think the problem is that the new class of male actors are all too pretty...I half expect them all to be wearing guy-liner...Their perfectly mussed hair is always just so...The actors we love aren't cookie cutter guys - they are the guys who have those small flaws that give them character...

I do have to wonder if any of them will improve with age...I think back to George Clooney's early days (The Facts of Life for one), and he just didn't have the same appeal then (to me, anyway)...The same holds true for Sean Connery - back in the Bond days, I think he looked OK, but he is definitely like a fine wine because he improved with age...We practically drooled over pictures of him in high school (and I graduated in 1993)...

Where have all the movie men gone?

Doris Bell, Olney, MD — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 17:40:11 GMT

Clive Owen, Christian Bale, even the formerly boyish looking Timothy Hutton are my ideas of men. Also Michael Imperioli, nose & all! (Wonder if he'd ever play Cyrano?)

Where have all the movie men gone?

Lily, Miami, FL — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 17:41:34 GMT

I'm 21 but I kinda agree with you. The main reason is that Hollywood is an industry and they put the faces that has more sales. Check Twilight. 17 Again and that kind of movies. They are very popular for teens. That's why the industry is targeting their movies to that market putting young and fresh faces.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Caity Fields, Omaha, NE — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 17:45:44 GMT

We need more Jeffrey Dean Morgan. Now THERE'S a man!

Where have all the movie men gone?

Barbara, Newport Beach, CA — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 17:47:12 GMT

Thank you, yes. Even Brad Pitt isn't "man" enough for Angelina. The sexiest man alive is still 007 Sean Connery and he is in his 70s, at least.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Mlwinchell Seattle, WA — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 17:50:40 GMT

The only summer movie I am looking forward too is Public Enemies with Johnny Depp. Now there is a Hollywood leading man!!! He is way hotter than all the new and younger leading men. He is in 40's.

Lets see the staying power of Rob, Shia and Chance in the years to come. I predict it will not be long.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Melissa, Houston, TX — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 17:52:36 GMT

Along with Daniel Craig, I'd add Clive Owen and Colin Firth (apparently, I have a thing for Brits). I so agree! I want men to look like men and not someone I used to babysit for!

Where have all the movie men gone?

E, St. Louis, MO — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 17:54:20 GMT

We need more Nathan Fillion and Jeffery Donovan on the big screen....yummy..

Where have all the movie men gone?

Glacewell — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:01:45 GMT

I'm surprised I agree. They all look like kids and I feel old.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Jacqueline, Houston, Texas — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:05:57 GMT

Just an example, Superman Returns was ridiculous. He was nothing the man Christopher Reeve was in the original. I was looking at a boy trying to save the world. He just couldn't carry the role. Christopher Reeve was young when he first did the role, but he looked like a hulk of a man. I don't want to watch a boy do a man's job. It's just inane.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Cheryl, Akron, OH — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:06:03 GMT

Hollywood has such extreme double standards: for an actress to succeed, she must be drop dead gorgeous; for a man--it just doesn't seem to matter much what he looks like. There are mostly rather ordinary looking leading men (Sean Penn, for example); or they are the baby-faced brats described in the article. Where are the handsome, talented actors between 30 and 60 out there? I can only think of a few, like Keanu Reeves and Richard Gere. Where are actors that act their age and don't stay boys just to compete with todays youngsters--Matthew McConaughey comes to mind, here. Out there somewhere, there must be handsome, mature, strong (in character), age appropriate men to play opposite actresses like Bullock, Anniston, Roberts, Streep and Jolie. Gentlemen, please step up, and Hollywood, please take note: bring back the handsome, sophisticated, masculine, gentlemanly leading man! You will have us in lines at the theatre waiting to see the next Hollywood heart-throb!!

Where have all the movie men gone?

JB, Columbus, OH — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:07:13 GMT

I totally agree but I have always been more drawn to the rougher bad boys than the pretty boys. My choices: Gerard Butler, Hugh Laurie, Hugh Jackman, David Boreanaz (pretty but manly), and of course Sean Connery.
But as others have said, it's the younger crowd who are going out and paying the inflated prices for a new release movie with popcorn, drinks, etc. The "slightly" older crowd tend to wait until it comes out on DVD before they see a movie because they are too busy with career & family to catch it at the theater.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Jaye, Amherst, NY — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:09:41 GMT

Where's Clark Gable when you need him? Now he was all man!

Where have all the movie men gone?

Kim M. — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:10:00 GMT

Jude Law.
Johnny Depp (w/o the makeup & pirate-stuff)

Where have all the movie men gone?

Doris Bell, Olney, MD — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:12:31 GMT

Katie Spring's mention of "guyliner" made me think of another one--Lost's gorgeous Richard Alpert (Nestor Carbonell)!

Where have all the movie men gone?

jrzygrl — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:13:56 GMT

I totally agree with this post. I like the Harry Potter movies, but I also enjoyed the book. The story and how the characters evolved is what sparked my interest, nothing to do with attraction to the actor. I rarely if ever go to the movies anymore, they even have television geared that way. My example is Mark Harmon, I have watched him for years, and I find him even more hot & sexy with the graying hair then he was say in the day of Summer School (and he was pretty hot then too) And even if you do go to one of these geared toward the younger set movies these little girls are giggling and screaming for the star. I find myself watching the older movies, anything with Steve McQueen, I even watched the Towering Inferno because he was in it. I was a young teenager when that movie came out..We need more George Clooney's, Sean Connerys, Daniel Craigs, Sean Bean.. These guy have substance plus they're really good to look at...

Where have all the movie men gone?

Elle Griffin — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:15:51 GMT

I'm 65 and love looking at these "men" but there is an age limit that does the turning on - Clive Owen, Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Henry Cavell (The Tudors) they are on the younger side but can only get better with age. New series starts tonight with James Purefoy (from Rome series) - he is a good bad boy and looks great in a tunic - those Brits certainly have it going for them - Colin Firth - yummy.

Where have all the movie men gone?

leta, Jackson, MS — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:17:21 GMT

after reading all of the previous comments, I gotta agree with a few of them...

Hugh Laurie - love, love, love him, he looks like a man who has truly lived! So sexy

Clive Owen - nuff said

Daniel Craig

and my sweet-faced (ie cannot be lumped in with these craggy, worldly men) weakness is Nathan Fillion, yum.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Age Appropriate, CT — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:18:10 GMT

Less than 20 years ago we were snarkily dismissing the "high schoolers" of "Beverly Hills 90210" and "Dawson's Creek" because they were really 20-something actors playing teens. Now the tide has turned and we're putting baby-faced youngsters in adult roles.

Some of these young men, Daniel Radcliffe in particular, are good actors and can be quite charming in interviews, but that makes me feel like a creepy old cougar (yes, I despise that word as well) at the age of 44. Let me see that devilish twinkle in George Clooney's eyes or the knowing furrow of Daniel Craig's brow any day over those toddlers!

Where have all the movie men gone?

JM Orlando FL — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:18:48 GMT

Thank goodness I'm not the only one that thinks this! These little boys look like they would cry if they mussed their hair or cut their finger. I don't find them attractive or interesting in any way.

Where have all the movie men gone?

ak — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:25:18 GMT

hugh jackman, jeffrey dean morgan, robert downey jr, viggo mortenson, daniel craig, denzel washington, clive owen, george clooney, christian bale, josh duhamel, luke wilson, liev schrieber, ewan macgregor, gerard butler.....i could go on and on. i don't think there's any shortage of leading men - are all of them of (or even close to) bogart or stewart or peck or connery caliber? no. are many of them close? oh yes. some just need experience, and they'll be the stars that two generations from now will be iconic.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Robin — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:25:44 GMT

My first movie-star crush was the late, great Paul Newman, and as far as I'm concerned, all other leading men should be measured against Mr. Newman's great looks and presence (which he never lost!). I like what Melissa of Houston said: on the screen, I don't want leading men to look like they just started shaving!

Where have all the movie men gone?

Bonnie, Philadelphia, PA — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:31:21 GMT

Real men in movies today: Hugh Jackman, Gerard Butler, Jeffrey Dean Morgan. Up and coming: Jensen Ackles. Here's a guy who can play young and still be masculine. He could handle Megan Fox.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Lisa Richland MI — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:33:50 GMT

Okay, I get what all of you are saying about having a little more "MAN" in your man but some of the men you are referencing are dinosaurs or dead! Maybe the actors we are forced to watch these days are not as old as you but isn't that part of the fun? I would rather watch a hot young man strut his stuff on the big screen then try to remember how hot Sean Connery used to be. We each have our time in the sun and when it's over, it's over. We all have to step aside and let the young have thier's.

Where have all the movie men gone?

becca, Mesquite Tx — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:40:12 GMT

A baby face is just not sexy to me and i dont like all those bubble gum movies either I want to see some real grown up men on the screen. Anything movie with johnny depp gets my money now he is a sexy man.

Where have all the movie men gone?

AP, Tupelo — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:40:27 GMT

I'm 27, and my biggest TV crush today has to be Hugh Laurie from "House". I mentioned that to my mother, and she asked, "isn't he a little old for you?" but I don't care. There's something about his well-lined face, life-weary attitude, and incredible medical genious that I can't get enough of. A 20-year-old could never pull that off, no matter how great an actor he is. Sure, those boys are fun to look at, but there's something about lusting over young men who appear on the cover of Tiger Beat (does that still exist?) or some other teenie bopper magazine full of tear-out posters that just feels dirty...

Where have all the movie men gone?

Michele — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:41:24 GMT

Two words: Gary. Oldman.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Di, NJ — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:49:29 GMT

Growing up, Clark Gable was affectionately known as "Clarkey-Baby" in our house - my mom's favorite! Mom's a smart lady - his bad-boy good looks still light up the screen decades later, and now I have Clooney as my version! I find that salt & pepper hair and a handsome face that shows some wrinkles upon smiling much better than the baby-faced stars of today. That being said, I wish I saw more of my childhood hearthrob - John Cusack - on the screen. Wish he'd reprise Lloyd Dobler in a grown up version of "Say Anything"!! :)

Where have all the movie men gone?

ECAIN — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 19:00:49 GMT

Oh E I agree completely!!! Nathan Fillion is YUMMY!! His new school is great, he is intelligent and hot, not a bad combo!
I have to admit a crush on guys like Sean Connery, Patrick Stewart and whoever played the Admiral on JAG... mmmmm older balding men :) Or rather strong, experience mature GROWN UPS!! There is a reason so many girls have daddy complexes... they don't see matural adult men anywhere!

Where have all the movie men gone?

Amanda — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 19:02:47 GMT

How could someone be a "hottest bachelor" if I couldn't pick them out of a lineup? I'm 30 and keep up with quite a bit of entertainment news, but I've seen NOTHING he's ever been in. That title should be left for someone much more well known to the masses, not some young fry on the CW (it is the CW, right? Some of the younger girls I work with tell me he's on Gossip Girl. I don't watch that network because I'm not 14 so I don't know).

Where have all the movie men gone?

Candy, St. Louis, MO — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 19:07:53 GMT

What happened to the Man's Man, Men that men wanted to be...
Sam Elliot, now there's a man. Women love him and men want to be him, or
Steve McQueen, Paul Newman, Al Pacino, Gene Hackman, Viggo Mortenson, Ed Harris, Tom Selleck, Johnny Depp, Harrison Ford, Bogart, Brando, Brosnan and Bronson, DeNiro, these men are hot and they can actually ACT!!

Where have all the movie men gone?

ak, detroit — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 19:13:43 GMT

Di - how did i forget John Cusack on my list? i must have been half asleep - lloyd dobler forever <3

also - jake ryan (16 candles) - actor was Michael Schoeffling. He doesn't act anymore, but I am willing to bet that he is an attractive guy, and would have turned into quite the leading man if he had stuck around.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Wishing for a man, DC — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 19:17:42 GMT

does anyone remember Ricardo Montelbon?? And how about Benicio Del Toro?

Where have all the movie men gone?

Chris, Manchester UK (Chris Ruskin) — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 19:18:32 GMT

Felt compelled to add my bit here - you didn't mention Robert Redford enough! Robert Redford, Robert Redford, Robert Redford!!! Other 'real' men? what about Goran Visnjic, Max Beesley, Damien Lewis, William H Macey, Denzil Washington - just to name a few hunky, chunky males who are also very good actors!

Where have all the movie men gone?

KH, Irmo, SC — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 19:29:04 GMT

"how hot Sean Connery used to be" Excuse me, but he is still hot. All of these "older" manly actors everyone is naming never looked like the little boys of today. They have always looked like grown men and were/are very masculine and sexy. Give me Tom Selleck, Sam Elliott (that voice), Sean Connery, George Clooney, Richard Gere, Harrison Ford, Mel Gibson, etc. anyday of the week! They just get better with age.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Vicki, Memphis, Tennessee — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 19:35:23 GMT

Well, I'll have to say that I pretty much agee with Age Appropriate in Conneticutt. I feel the subject of this article has pretty much to do with the age thing and with their preferences in the old timers in the movie world. And don't get me wrong, I may fall along the lines of an old timer myself, but it absolutely doesn't keep me from recognizing good talent, and let's not forget good looks (in my opinion) when you see it. And yes, I'm talking about Daniel Radcliffe in particular! Dan may be young, but the charm and intellect he generates publically is one I perceive as being one of the secrets to his success. As Age Appropriate said, these old timers started in the very same boat as Dan did many years ago. It's how show business is handled in their perspective that determines how far they'll go with it. And as his future looks very bright indeed, you can rest assure he'll eventually fall into the same catergory as the well noted and respected movie historians of all time. *winks*

Where have all the movie men gone?

Jean, Philly PA — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 19:36:23 GMT

From your lips to the casting god's ears! I agree fully with your article. I even enjoy these young men, in their place(teen films), but they are not men, not leading men and certainly not anything I look at as "sexy"..it seems as if Hollywood has a thing for the anorexic girl look as well as the pre-teen boy look..it's not fun and it's one of the reasons I stay home and wait for movies to hit for free on cable. I'll pay for Geroge Clooney and Johnny Depp,even Edward Norton but I'm not paying to see children.(36yrs old and have always loved Paul Newman-he's a real man and as for Angelina,I'm convinced the only match I've seen for her in one of her films has been Brad, just my opinion:)

Where have all the movie men gone?

Carmen — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 19:36:35 GMT

Where are all the real men?? Gerard Butler, Viggo Mortenson, Ed Harris, Clive Owen. The men are there, what we are missing are the decent movies with decent plots for them to star in.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Catherine, Orlando, FL — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 19:40:45 GMT

I blame Leonardo DiCaprio. It all started with that silly Titanic movie. From that point on, any man that could actually grow a beard seemed to vanish from Hollywood movies. I want my Clark Gable, dangit! Now that's a man who knew how to be a man.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Dinana, Wilsonville, OR — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 19:42:22 GMT

I generally don't like the younger man/older women scenario...didn't think Kelly McGillis was right for Tom Cruise in "Top Gun"...looks like his mother...same trend, different decade. I have always liked older men...the young ones look like puppies...and that means training!

Where have all the movie men gone?

me — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 19:43:17 GMT

This is ridiculous. Ever since the feminist movement, women have always complained about wanting to be treated equal to men and not forced into traditional gender molds; but god forbid men don't always fall under the super macho, primal hyper-masculine rugged archetype. It's such a hypocritical double standard.

Where have all the movie men gone?

DP, Atlanta, GA — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 19:54:40 GMT

I enjoy watching Hugh Laurie,and George Clooney, as well as Nathan Fillion, Colin Ferguson and Jeffrey Donovan. And let's not forget the "Fabulous Fifties" - Kurt Russell and Bruce Campbell! Oh, and John Tenney from "The Closer" - there's a yummy one!

Where have all the movie men gone?

Laura, Baltimore — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 19:55:09 GMT

Shia is a dead-ringer for David Gahan of Depeche Mode during their Rose Bowl concert in 1989. We've seen this face, before--twenty years ago.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Sarah, Albany, NY — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 20:13:20 GMT

Ugh, I couldn't agree more. I'm 24 and can't stand to watch these younger men (even though some are my age). I prefer the older, more talented, and much more attractive men. Please give some Depp, Redford, Clooney, or Hackman ANY DAY over these whimpy looking 20-somethings.

Where have all the movie men gone?

T in Bellingham — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 20:15:25 GMT

Benicio Del Toro is in a class by himself. He is not a man; he is a god!!!!!!!!!!
And Nathan Fillion is the cutest thing in britches. (I have 'Firefly' memorized.)

Where have all the movie men gone?

km — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 20:17:53 GMT

Sam Elliott--that's a man.

Where have all the movie men gone?

CPerry,Philadelphia, PA — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 20:19:48 GMT

I'm so over the young guys that I need a bald older guy with hair where it probably shouldn't be...Stanley Tucci, for example...and god almighty, Richard Gere now is so much more fab than Gere the Gigolo.. he looked too young back then!
It's the skinniness too; these younger guys are so skinny and wear skinny clothes, and then the older guys, like Mr. Pitt, do the same. And I hate to say Bruce Willis -- who I always adored but now I believe is far too lean and tatted up and chasing his youth.
I want a man who is a little bit "lived in..."
Jeff Bridges...
Alec Baldwin (yummiest man on TV and who cares if he has a few pounds? So do I!)..

Where have all the movie men gone?

Bill T, Greenbrier, AR — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 20:29:48 GMT

I think it goes beyond just movies. I think it includes television shows and even commercials. It can't be just coincidence that all three seem to be "weenieing" the men of today. By "weenieing" I mean emasculating men in general or making them appear as idiots(recent Sonic commerials say it all).

There is a huge market for people who don't want silly, immature, and brainless in their movies.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Jenn, Minneapolis MN — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 20:39:04 GMT

Young people spend the money on movies plain and simple. It's only going to get worse as more and more young people start coming of age.
It seems like most of my favorite actors are from other countries: Daniel Craig, Gerard Butler, Eric Bana, Russell Crowe, Marton Csokas... Even though these men are masculine, they also can play parts that have a vulnerability. It seems like American actors and the parts they play tend to be so one-dimensional. It's either hyper-masculine or doughy waif boys. Men can be on wide spectrum of dimensions, as can women, isn't it time hollywood showed that?
I think there is a place for both boys and men, I just wish hollywood did.

Where have all the movie men gone?

L, Indianapolis, IN — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 20:46:26 GMT

Thank you! I can't stand all of the babies in the movies today. I'm in my mid-20's, so please don't just write me off as old. Really, my favs are the likes of Harrison Ford, Tom Hanks, George Clooney, etc. I won't even watch the movies with these baby actors. I did watch "Wanted" and like someone mentioned earlier, I felt like the poor boy was going to cry for Mommy the entire movie. It really speaks to the feminine man look that has become popular. Give me a MAN with a rough look any day.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Maggie, Nashville, TN — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 20:53:23 GMT

I think the youngest,most talented actor on my TiVo wish list is Ryan Gosling. He is an actor, not a movie star and he will be around long after all the pretty (not to me) movie star wannabe's are long forgotten. More of my TiVo on that list: John Cusack, Alec Baldwin, Jeff Bridges, Ed Harris, Jeffrey Nordling, Aidan Quinn, Sean Penn, Christopher Walken, Bill Pullman, Bill Paxton and the ladies, Meryl Streep and Sandra Bullock, Diane Lane and Jessica Lange. Can't go wrong with any movies with them in the credits. Oh, and yes to Owen Wilson and NO to Ben Stiller.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Marion Seattle WA — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 20:53:47 GMT

One Name MARTON CSOKAS Now That's a real man not boy man

Where have all the movie men gone?

Patti, Seattle, Wa — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 21:02:36 GMT

The older I get (44 today) the less interest I have in the metro-sexual pretty young boys. I'll take a real man over them any day - Sam Elliot, Ed Harris, Tommy Lee Jones, even Kevin Costner (but only in cowboy mode, ala "Open Range"). Nice, dependable, manly men. That said, I must admit I absolutely adore Daniel Radcliffe, but I think that's because he's part of the whole "Harry Potter" package. And the boys in the "Twilight" movies aren't too shabby either!

Where have all the movie men gone?

Carol, Richmond, VA — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 21:07:50 GMT

Colin Firth yes, Shia, the chinless wonder, no. Most of these young guys look like they need me to open the door for them--good looking enough, but not much character in their childish faces yet. Maybe never, they're too pretty. Anyone remember Paul Newman?

Where have all the movie men gone?

newshound nh — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 21:13:29 GMT

tom selleck. mmmmm. love to suck that mustache right off his lip!
oops, sorry. did i say that out loud??

Where have all the movie men gone?

John Doe, Seattle, Wash. — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 21:17:54 GMT

I saw another similar article earlier - do you people have an attention span of ~30 seconds? There have been plenty of "adult men" in leading roles of successful films over the last few years. Just because the blockbuster of the moment has an obnoxious kid in its leading role does not mean he is the "leading" man of the moment.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Robin, Las Vegas NV — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 21:38:02 GMT

So many performers, men and women, look so young today it's hard for someone like me (over 50) to get excited about them. A lot of that is Hollywood and society's fault; God forbid people should have wrinkles! Look at so many stars of old; even when they were young (Lauren Bacall), they looked older. I have a picture of my mom when she graduated high school; she easily looked in her early 20s.

There's certainly nothing wrong with younger stars playing characters in their age group; but it's so hard to believe that Ryan Reynolds and Sandra Bullock, who I just love, are 14 years apart. She certainly doesn't look her age and God bless her for that. But, it's also hard to lose yourself in a movie when everyone looks so damned young, even when they're in the 40s! Give me Clark Gable or Gary Cooper any day!

Where have all the movie men gone?

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 21:45:28 GMT

I must say you women dissappoint me. Just as I wish to be seen for my skill and ability and not the height of my high heels or the volume and length of my hair, I would not judge men on how "manly" their appearance. Disgraceful.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Cass Garrett — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 21:47:53 GMT

Does it seem to anyone that all of the hot, real-men actors are from foreign countries now. Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Daniel Craig and on and on. What's happening to American men? The ones I'm seeing now on TV and in movies are anything but "real men". Give me Selleck, Sam Elliott, Daniel Craig...anyone who looks like...and ACTS like a MAN!!!

Where have all the movie men gone?

Yeah Maybe You're Right, Chicago, IL — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 21:53:45 GMT

Well of course if you follow mainstream Hollywood films you're going to be stuck with their terrible and questionable casting trends; or perhaps more accurate perceived to actual age related roles.

A lot of people have been mentioning men who started their careers multiple decades ago. It's 2009, not 1989, so over time the men you mentioned matured to fit into many roles. Give these younger actors time to grow because you're looking at a new crop of actors that may or may not mature into future roles two decades from now.

If you look at the overall demographics of the United States you might also notice that teenagers and college students are looking younger and younger with each generation.

Where have all the movie men gone?

ColoMtnWoman, Colorado — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 21:55:37 GMT

I have to say I'm developing a taste for Clive Owen, Viggo Mortenson & Christian Bale... But I still love the more craggy types George Clooney, Liam Neeson, Sam Elliott! (I'm 64, by the way...) :)

Where have all the movie men gone?

Molly, Seattle, WA — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 22:09:06 GMT

I am only a few years older than LeBeouf but think he is completely immature for his roles. He is not a strong character and definitely not attractive. His voice still has not even changed! The only explanation is that Hollywood is concerned with profit and not quality of their movies. He is cheap labor and willing to star in anything, so why not. I am upset to hear that he would star in a remake of 'Wall Street' which was a great film. There have to be a million other guys out there with more talent for this role. Maybe Hollywood likes young girls, but young guys are not the future of movies at all.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Missy, SC — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 22:15:09 GMT

Thank God for almost all of your comments!! Little girls like watching all thes pre-pubescent boys strut around in daddies clothes...Real Women want a real man...Tom Selleck, Harrison Ford, Viggo Mortenson, Liam Neeson, Sean Connery who gets better looking and sexier every year! Pair them with some Real women...Michelle Pfeiffer is hotter than most of the little girly girls out there and she can ACT. Ahhhh..I feel better now!

Where have all the movie men gone?

Nat — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 22:25:37 GMT

missing Joaquin that´s for sure.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Rose, Denver, Colorado — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 22:38:14 GMT

I agree. I'm 40 and I have very little interest in the boys in this summer's movies. (Notable exception: Taylor Kitsch in Wolverine-Yum!) I would much prefer to see George Clooney, Clive Owen, Harrison Ford or Daniel Craig. MEN of action, not boys.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Meg, SLC, Utah — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 23:00:00 GMT

I'm a 23-year old woman, and I find LaBeouf, Pattinson and Radcliffe as sexy as their older counterparts. There's nothing wrong with a little variety, now is there? I still love George Clooney, Gerard Butler, and Christian Bale, but come on... what is the point of life if it isn't full of options?

Where have all the movie men gone?

Melissa - San Diego, CA — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 23:00:54 GMT

I am 29 and have to admit that I think the young actors are adorable !! I like the older ones too (i.e. Gerard Butler, Edward Norton) but Shia LaBeouf and Zac Efron are delightful to watch and are pretty decent actors in their own right ! I don't feel like a perv or anything since I am hardly considering having a relationship with them. Makes me feel young to watch these guys !

Where have all the movie men gone?

Jodi, Tennessee — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 23:25:42 GMT

I like men who look like they can take care of things and have experience in doing so. Most of the young guys onscreen today, I've never even heard of. They're pretty interchangeable. A few of the good actors are still working: Johnny Depp, Alan Rickman, George Clooney, Sean Bean, Tom Hanks, even Brad Pitt (he's considered old now?). Jack Nicholson may be 'old' but he's a hell of an actor.

I don't feel any attachment to the kid-faced actors nowadays. Sorry, but I just can't imagine Shia Lebeuf or James Mcelvoy being able to take care of business if we were stranded in the midst of nowhere.

I remember when Christian Bale was a young, fresh-faced and innocent, yet handsome, child in Henry V. I'm happy to see he's grown into a handsome man, but I'm still old enough to be his older sister. Still, he's one of the modern actors who has matured into a man, not a kid playing dress-up.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Marsha Bradley IL — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 23:27:41 GMT

Viggo Mortensen, George Clooney, Johnny Depp, John Cusack, Sean Bean and Nick Cage are very good looking leading men

Where have all the movie men gone?

Kathy — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 23:28:40 GMT

As I was reading this article, it finally dawned on me why there is only one movie this summer that I must see in the theater when it opens: Public Enemies. And this article spelled out the reason why.

I'm 39 and I am just not attracted to these younger guys and it is the age thing. I can't relate to them. There's kind of an "ick" factor, knowing that when some of them were still in diapers, I was in high school (and could have been their teen-aged babysitter).

Where have all the movie men gone?

jrzygrl — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 23:38:03 GMT

TO ECAIN:
That is Jonathan M Jackson as the Admiral in Jag, I have seen him in some other things when he was younger and had hair... I have to say he was okay then, but damn if he is not sooo sexy bald... also have to add to my list, Colin Firth, Tom Selleck, Sam Elliot (my God his voice could make me do just about anything..)

Where have all the movie men gone?

kj, dallas, tx — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 23:43:55 GMT

Will Smith, Antonio Banderas, Denzel Washington, Johnny Depp, Gerard Butler, Viggo Mortenson, Christian Bale, (and yes, Joaquin Phoenix SHOULD come back!!) Still a fan of James McAvoy and Jonathan Rhys-Meyers! p.s. does anyone know what happened to Blair Underwood???

Where have all the movie men gone?

mohican — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 23:45:49 GMT

Although I like looking at handsome men no matter their age, in movies as well as most other situations, youth is never a substitute for experience.

Where have all the movie men gone?

RRuin — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 23:51:31 GMT

If you're looking for a "real" man look no further than Gerard Butler.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Vicki Westminster, Co — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 23:54:57 GMT

here,here
Gary Cooper, Johnny Depp, Keanu Reeves, Denzel Washington, George Clooney, all beautiful men.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Karl Scott — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:26:45 GMT

Can anyone say HUGH JACKMAN?

Smooth as a matinee idol in a Tux, and can sing and dance like a musical theater professsional (which he is)

Classically good looking, but

Can play WOLVERINE for God's sake,

as well as the gay singer Peter Allen in the Stage play The Boy from Oz.

Then he backs up as Drover in AUSTRALIA

There is nothing this 6'2" bloke can't do

Where have all the movie men gone?

JM, DALLAS TEXAS — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:32:46 GMT

Well, I am 25 and I love CHACE CRAWFORD!!! He is got what it takes!!! He deserves the tittle; he is HOT SO HOT......SEXY SO SEXY......I believe it was about time that People Magasine realized that we also buy the magasine; so don't hate congratulate! Maybe, and only maybe next year you guys get a nominee that suits your search criteria.......

Where have all the movie men gone?

Leslie, St Paul, MN — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:50:39 GMT

I have to agree that the men on the big screen today are mere boys. Compare them to any adult and they don't measure up. It isn't that they are young. As has been mentioned Christopher Reeve was young when he did Superman, but he was buff and mature. Mature being the word. He looked grown up, he looked like he could save the world. I don't have anything against the metro sexual look, like it in some men. I think Cary Grant would have been considered metro sexual and Peirce Brosnan during his TV days was definitely metro sexual, but they were manly. You can't compare the suave, intellectual hotness of Cary Grant with the young bored men of today. Even the rugged, lean hotness of Redford can't be matched today... jake gill(spelling) might come close.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Ashley, Tucson, AZ — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:51:55 GMT

Ewan McGregor all the way! Yummy.

I also love Gerard Butler, Daniel Craig, Harrison Ford, and Lam Neeson. I'm only 21, and most of the younger actors just don't appeal to me at all.

Though I do love Daniel Radcliffe. :P

Where have all the movie men gone?

Heather, Port Angeles, WA — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 01:38:04 GMT

I agree Hollywood needs more real men. Gerard Butler, Hugh Laurie and Daniel Craig can't do all alone. These others barely look old enough to tie their own shoes let alone save the world.

Where have all the movie men gone?

taylor, hoquiam wa — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 01:39:10 GMT

I would never go to the movies with a date who looks 15, so why would I go see a movie whose leading "man" looks 15? I'm only 27, and none of the boys in the summer flicks this year could ask me out without getting laughed at.

Where have all the movie men gone?

rev. shamar wesa — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 01:39:55 GMT

thanks for the article....i stopped watching new movies and television for this exact reason...now, i only watch old movies-expecially westerns because the men are really men...there is definetly something wrong with todays culture in wanting such "girly" looking men. it's one thing to be a sensitive, caring man- another to have hair pretty than mine! yes, i am glad to see so many women are actually lamenting over the lost romance hunks of old hollywood....

Where have all the movie men gone?

Emily, Miami, FL — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 15:32:16 GMT

I agree, where have they all gone? Even Alec Baldwin at his young age in "Red October" looked like he could take on Sean Connery and James Earl Jones. But ladies and gents, try another language. If you have CaribeVision in your area try "Hospital Central" or "El Comasario". There are young men, but ready to take on their roles. Also the gentleman on Telemundo and Univision have the looks and they are very appropriate with the woman they love.

Where have all the movie men gone?

craig anchorage — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 15:03:48 GMT

Remember when not even 2 years ago Vince Vaughan was all the rage because he was a ¨manly man¨? Now, apparently Hollywood has conducted some focus groups with a bunch of cougars. The word cougar doesn´t apply to men. Instead we call them pedophiles.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Beth, Jackson, WI — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 05:02:57 GMT

TV is where the hot, older men are at. NCIS and Mark Harmon fulfill my needs every Tuesday night. On Sundays I have Vincent D'Onofrio and Jeff Goldblum on USA. They fulfill my older man fantasy needs just fine, thank you very much! But, hey, if a movie is good, I'll watch it no matter what. I'm 40 and I always dig a good Mark Wahlberg flick.

Where have all the movie men gone?

abbie — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 06:03:02 GMT

I so agree. That's why a whole bunch of women from around the world went ga-ga about Daniel Craig in Bond. A REAL man who looks like a real man and behaves like one both on screen and in real life. Hollywood expects us to believe in someone like Matt Damon who looks like he works in a beauty store as Bourne. Rediculous. There was ab on-line poll for one of the big mags, forget which one, for the most fanciable man and Robert Pattinson won it!!! I thought the poll was for "man" not boyu! Geez.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Becca, Bzzo, NoDak — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 22:58:20 GMT

Viggo Mortenson! What a sexy beast. Him, Christian Bale, and Hugh Laurie are my dream men...and, though not an actor, Dave Matthews.

Where have all the movie men gone?

Trypno, NoWhere, Colorado — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 17:34:03 GMT

I'm only 22 and I agree with everyone here, I prefer watching a real movie over the new teeny bopper movies. Samuel L. Jackson in Pulp Fiction, George Clooney in many of his numerous movies, Pierce Brosnan, Gerard Butler, Keifer Sutherland.
I think the problem is Hollywood's recent obsession with the metrosexual look. This country still hasn't gotten over it's 'Queer Eye for the Straight Guy" phase, and it is rendering these Hollywood movies horribly unmanly. The last awesome action flick I saw was '300', and that was when it first came out a couple years ago, even that was filled with hairless oiled up guys, wtf?!

Where have all the movie men gone?

jake hill,gympie,australia — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:08:06 GMT

hi, i'm 14 and i have an theory why they are getting high schoolers an not older and experienced people to do these awesome movies. it's well and truely because young girls and guys want other young girls and guys so there pulling out people with a bit of talent to take up the spot light while the others get the boot just so they get more money out of these young celebs. i find it rather rude to use people like that but people do=(

Where have all the movie men gone?

Lori, Miami, Florida — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 03:16:37 GMT

this is a bit ridiculous, some of these actors youre naming looks their age, emile hirsch, shia labeouf. i dont know what high school you went to but i wish i went their if 16 year old males looked like labeouf. and on top of that some of the names (not all) but some mentioned have proven to be pretty capable actors. should they be penalized bc they are young?