The trend of actors known for their comedic roles venturing into dramatic territory has become increasingly popular. Following in the footsteps of Steve Carell and Jonah Hill, Vince Vaughn took the leap and transformed his image with the intense and violent prison drama “Brawl in Cell Block 99”.
After struggling to regain his status as a viable comedic actor, Vaughn decided to take a radical risk by starring in a brutal and dark project that defied commercial expectations. His latest comedy roles, including “Delivery Man” and “Unfinished Business”, were met with lukewarm reviews, solidifying Vaughn’s need for a drastic change.
Vaughn’s performance as Bradley Thomas, a former boxer turned maximum-security prison inmate, is nothing short of sensational. He portrays a character driven by family and survival, who is forced to navigate the treacherous world of the prison system. Bradley’s vulnerability shines through as he makes tough decisions and engages in brutal confrontations to protect his family.
Unlike his previous comedic roles, Vaughn’s character eschews social interaction, and instead keeps a safe distance from the corrupt officials and inmates. This acting choice adds depth to the film’s themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and survival.
Vince Vaughn (Via IMDB)
As the stakes escalate, Bradley’s enemies become increasingly more dangerous, and his motivations become more relatable. The film’s raw and intense action sequences take place within the confines of the prison, where Vaughn’s physicality is utilized to the fullest.
Despite the film’s violence, Vaughn manages to make Bradley a vulnerable character, displaying his embittered rage when he discovers he is merely a pawn in a larger conspiracy. Vaughn’s ability to portray this complex and troubled character solidifies his reputation as a dramatic actor.
Brawl in Cell Block 99 marks a new era in Vaughn’s career, where he has branched out into more genre films, including the horror comedy “Freaky” and the neo-Western “Arkansas”. By taking risks on challenging material, Vaughn has proven himself to be a more interesting and versatile actor, piquing interest in his projects.
Brawl in Cell Block 99 is available to stream on Netflix in the U.S.
