Judd Apatow, the filmmaker behind some of the biggest R-rated comedies of the 2000s, believes the genre is due for a resurgence. Known for hits like The 40-Year-Old Virgin, Knocked Up, and Superbad, Apatow shaped a decade of comedy filmmaking. However, in recent years, mainstream theatrical comedies have taken a backseat to action-packed blockbusters and globally appealing content.
In a recent interview with Variety, Apatow shared his optimism about the genre’s future, saying, “These things kind of swing back and forth. If someone made something as funny as ‘The Hangover’ right now, it would make a billion dollars.” He sees comedy’s decline as part of a cycle rather than a permanent shift.
One major factor influencing the change, according to Apatow, is the push for films that perform well worldwide. Unlike action movies, which translate easily across cultures, comedy is often rooted in local humor. Hollywood’s emphasis on global markets has made financing R-rated comedies more challenging.
Despite these obstacles, Apatow notes that streaming has given older comedies a second life. Cult classics like Walk Hard and Freaks and Geeks have found new audiences, proving that great comedy has lasting appeal.
While theatrical releases of R-rated comedies remain rare, Apatow’s words suggest that the genre isn’t gone—it’s just waiting for the right moment to make a comeback.
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Source: Dark Horizons
Photo Credit: Columbia
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