Matthew Lillard Filmography: A Comprehensive Guide To His Career Highlights

Matthew Lillard has established himself as a versatile actor, with a diverse filmography that spans across multiple genres and decades. From his breakout role in "Scream" to his voice acting in animated features, Lillard's contributions to the entertainment industry are noteworthy. This article delves into his filmography, showcasing his evolution as an actor and the significant works that have defined his career.

As we explore Matthew Lillard's filmography, we'll highlight key films, performances, and collaborations that have made him a recognizable name in Hollywood. With a career that began in the early 1990s, Lillard has appeared in both blockbuster hits and indie gems, proving his adaptability and talent in various roles.

In this comprehensive guide, we will break down Lillard's filmography into several sections, offering insights into his most notable performances, the characters he portrayed, and the impact of his work on audiences. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to his work, this article aims to provide a thorough understanding of Matthew Lillard's contributions to film and television.

Table of Contents

• Early Career
• Breakthrough Role: Scream
• Voice Acting in Animation
• Comedic Roles
• Dramatic Roles
• Recent Works
• Collaborations with Notable Directors
• Conclusion

Early Career

Matthew Lillard's journey in the entertainment industry began with his work in television and film during the early 1990s. He made his acting debut in the 1990 film "Forever Young," starring alongside Mel Gibson. Here are some highlights from his early career:

• 1991: Appeared in the TV series "Same As It Never Was."
• 1994: Starred in "Serial Mom," a dark comedy directed by John Waters.
• 1995: Featured in "Hackers," a cult classic that showcased the emerging internet culture.

Breakthrough Role: Scream

In 1996, Matthew Lillard's career took a significant turn with his role as Stu Macher in Wes Craven's iconic slasher film "Scream." The film was a critical and commercial success, revitalizing the horror genre and introducing a new wave of teen horror films. Lillard's performance was notable for its blend of humor and menace, making Stu a memorable character in the franchise.

Key points about "Scream":

• Released on December 20, 1996, it grossed over $173 million worldwide.
• Lillard's portrayal of Stu earned him recognition and a dedicated fanbase.
• The film spawned several sequels, with Lillard reprising his role in "Scream" (2022) as a voice cameo.

Voice Acting in Animation

Matthew Lillard has also made a name for himself in the world of voice acting, particularly in animated series and films. His work in this realm has showcased his ability to bring characters to life with his distinctive voice. Some notable projects include:

• Shaggy Rogers: Lillard became the voice of Shaggy in the "Scooby-Doo" franchise starting with "Scooby-Doo on Zombie Island" (1998) and has continued to voice the character in various projects.
• Other Animated Roles: Lillard has lent his voice to characters in series like "The Simpsons" and video games such as "Kingdom Hearts."

Comedic Roles

Lillard's charm and comedic timing have led him to take on numerous comedic roles throughout his career. Some of his most notable performances include:

• She's All That (1999): Played the lovable yet goofy character, Brock Hudson, alongside Rachael Leigh Cook and Freddie Prinze Jr.
• Without a Paddle (2004): Co-starred with Seth Green and Dax Shepard in this adventure-comedy about childhood friends reuniting for a camping trip.
• The Descendants (2011): Featured in a supporting role in this critically acclaimed film directed by Alexander Payne.

Dramatic Roles

Beyond comedy, Matthew Lillard has proven his dramatic range with compelling performances in various films. Some standout roles include:

• Love and Mary (2007): Lillard portrayed a conflicted character in this romantic comedy-drama.
• Fat Kid Rules the World (2012): Directed by Lillard himself, this film showcases his talents both in front of and behind the camera.
• Dead Man's Curve (1998): A psychological thriller that explores the dark side of college life.

Recent Works

In recent years, Lillard has continued to take on diverse roles, demonstrating his commitment to evolving as an actor. Some of his latest projects include:

• 13 Reasons Why (2017-2020): Recurring role as the character of Mr. Porter in this critically acclaimed Netflix series.
• Ghostface Returns: Lillard reprised his role in the "Scream" franchise with the release of "Scream (2022)," garnering a new generation of fans.
• Upcoming Projects: Lillard has several projects in development, indicating his ongoing relevance in the industry.

Collaborations with Notable Directors

Throughout his career, Matthew Lillard has worked with several renowned directors, contributing to his growth as an actor. Some notable collaborations include:

• Wes Craven: The "Scream" series established a lasting partnership.
• John Waters: Lillard's role in "Serial Mom" showcased his ability to navigate dark humor.
• Alexander Payne: Collaborated in "The Descendants," which received critical acclaim.

Conclusion

Matthew Lillard's filmography is a testament to his versatility and talent as an actor. From his early days in television to his breakout role in "Scream," and his continued success in voice acting and dramatic roles, Lillard has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. As he continues to evolve and take on new challenges, audiences can look forward to more memorable performances from this talented actor.

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