Jason Sudeikis has built his reputation playing likeable, comedic characters, earning two Emmys for his role as Ted Lasso. However, this article highlights his 2017 performance in "Colossal," where he played against type as Oscar, a manipulative villain and embodiment of the toxic "Nice Guy" trope that has become increasingly prevalent in 2026 films. His performance was prescient, demonstrating this character archetype nearly a decade before the trend gained prominence.

In "Colossal," Sudeikis' Oscar reconnects with his hometown friend Gloria (Anne Hathaway) after she returns home following a relationship breakdown, offering her work at his bar. The film takes a surreal turn when Gloria discovers she mysteriously controls a kaiju monster appearing in South Korea through her physical movements. Oscar's character proves particularly compelling because he initially presents as the charming, helpful friend audiences expect from Sudeikis, but gradually reveals himself to be quietly manipulative, insecure and domineering—using his knowledge of Gloria's vulnerabilities to belittle her and assert his superiority over someone whose career he resents.