5 Michael Cera roles that perfectly nail awkward comedy
07 Jul 2025

Michael Cera, an indispensable part of Hollywood comedy, has always been known for his unforgettable characters who are awkward but lovable at the same time.

The range of his work has not just shaped his career but also lent a lot to the field of comedy.

Here's looking at five iconic roles that make Cera's contribution to Hollywood comedy impossible to ignore.

'Superbad' as Evan
High school humor

In Superbad, Cera starred as Evan, a high school student dealing with the trials of adolescence, with his best friend by his side.

The movie became a success, partly due to its relatable humor and the true embodiment of a teenager's life.

Cera's performance injected true awkwardness into the character, making Evan funny and lovable.

The role cemented him as a leading actor in coming-of-age comedies.

'Juno' as Paulie Bleeker
Quirky charm

In Juno, Cera played Paulie Bleeker, an unconventional high school student who gets into an unexpected dilemma with his classmate, Juno.

His character's quirkiness struck a chord with the audience, and the way Cera played him added more depth to the film's narrative through understated humor and charm.

The character's warmth and authenticity were a testament to Cera's knack for playing complex comedic roles.

'Arrested Development' as George Michael Bluth
Family dynamics

Cera became a household name with his portrayal of George Michael Bluth in the TV series Arrested Development.

Playing a son of a dysfunctional family patriarch, he gave us hilarious moments through deadpan humor and impeccable timing.

The show's quirkiness helped him delve into different aspects of comedy while ensuring continuity in character growth during its course.

'Scott Pilgrim vs. the World' as Scott Pilgrim
Comic book heroics

In Scott Pilgrim vs. The World, Cera was Scott Pilgrim, an unlikely hero who fought seven evil exes for love.

The film combined elements from comic books with fast-paced action sequences laced with humor—a far cry from traditional comedies back then.

It also showed another side of Cera's versatility in this genre, seamlessly mixing physicality into his performance.

'Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist' as Nick O'Leary
Musical adventure

In this romantic comedy-drama film set against New York City's vibrant music scene backdrop, Cera played Nick O'Leary, a bassist searching for connection amidst chaos during one unforgettable night out.

The movie explores relationships through shared musical tastes, along with Norah Silverberg, played by Kat Dennings.

His portrayal captured youthful spontaneity while balancing heartfelt moments effortlessly throughout their journey together across town.

They filled their adventure with laughter and wayward adventures alike!