Comedian Kevin Hart has had great success as a stand-up comedian, taking his act to the big screen in 2011’s “Laugh at My Pain” and this year’s “Let Me Explain”, a 4th of July weekend hit that grossed over $32 million.
But now Hart has transformed into a bonafide movie star. Sure, he’s had memorable roles in African-American ensemble comedies “Death at a Funeral” and “Think Like a Man”, and even played himself in “This Is The End” (before falling to into the pit of death). But over the next few months Hart will truly be showcasing his potential as a bonafide film powerhouse.
Receiving third billing under legends Robert De Niro and Sylvester Stallone, Hart co-stars as promoter Dante Slate, Jr. in the Christmas Day boxing comedy “Grudge Match”. He’s got some of the funniest lines in the trailer (including an exchange with Alan Arkin: “What was Jesus like? I’m curious.”) If Hart can hold himself with that cast, he’s ready for anything.
A few weeks later, on January 17th, Hart stars alongside Ice Cube in the buddy-cop action comedy “Ride Along”. And the laughs will likely keep coming with the Valentine’s Day release of the rom-com, “About Last Night”. Plus, “Think Like a Man Too” is scheduled for June 20th.
Also in the works: “The Wedding Ringer” (co-starring “Frozen”‘s Josh Gad), and a basketball flick with none other than NBA superstar Lebron James.
The great thing about Hart is that, unlike many current comics, he can be hysterically funny without relying on “dirty” jokes and adult language. That’s why he’s solid gold as a talk show guest (his recent “Tonight Show” and “GMA” appearances were fantastic). Mark my words: 2014 will be remembered as the “break-out year” for Kevin Hart, who’s already big, but destined to be HUGE.