Question

Think through nerd/geek films from the last 20 years, including Superbad, 40 Year Old Virgin, and even the Big Bang Theory. Why has there been a growing popularity in these types of male characters? What does that say about the traditional view of the male star? What genres are nerdy characters generally found and why?

Answer 1

All these films and serues from last 2 decades have made use of nerdy characters. Such male characters have found growing popularity too. This is because they tend to break the stigma. They are the ice breakers who breakthrough the traditional view of male characters.

Traditionally male characters are potrayed as macho personalities with charming looks and romanticising smile. They are allrounders with great built and physique. They are the man of every girl's dream. All sporty, social, popular, with extra cheese to woo a girl with their flirty lines and punches. But this is moved away from reality.

In reality all men are not so perfect. In fact they aren't even handsome as shown. They all have their flaws and imperfections that are in its own way attractive. Nerdy characters have helped in breaking this stereotype. These characters aren't macho but their wits can outwit all. Their brains, logic and zeel for practical approach is what ttracts the audience to them. Their weirdness is what catches everyone's eye.

Such characters are usually seen in scientific fictions or comic plots. As these blend well with the comic nature they are most suited there. They create an environment closer to reality which is what makes them relatable and captive.