Stand-ups on screen

Dane Cook

On the stage… Not every comedian can sell out Madison Square Garden—but that’s the kind of career Dane Cook has established. Known for an exuberant, excited stage presence, he was one of the first comedians to rally a fan base through the internet. Although he’s been blasted for storytelling over joke-telling (an 2006 AP article was headlined: “Is Dane Cook Actually Funny?”), Cook remains one of the reigning kings of stage comedy.

On the big screen… Despite multiple chances (“Waiting…,” “Employee of the Month” [pictured], “Good Luck Chuck” and supporting roles in “Dan in Real Life” and “Mr. Brooks”) Cook hasn’t been able to transfer his stage magic to the movie screen. Will having Kate Hudson, Jason Biggs and Alec Baldwin backing him up in “My Best Friend’s Girl” make a difference?