I'm not sure if I blogged about this before, but it's been very interesting to watch "The Rock's" transition from wrestling to film stardom. Today I took my son to see Alvin and the Chipmunks (the only non-scary kid movie available, though it featured wedgies) and here was one of the trailers (just move the pointer to the 2:10 mark if you want):



Now when this particular guy first started in films, he was billed in the Previews as "The Rock." Then in subsequent films he was referred to as "Dwayne 'the Rock' Johnson," and there might have also been a period where they used both names separately.

Now, in this film (and I believe his previous one) they don't even use "The Rock" at all. He is trying to put that behind him so he can become a real movie star, a la Marky Mark and the Fresh Prince.

Mr. Johnson's transition will not be complete until he can star in a movie without taking his shirt off.

Last point, I actually like him a lot. I love the self-deprecating comedic roles he takes, in particular in Be Cool (sequel to Get Shorty). This is one of his best parts, where he's auditioning by re-enacting a scene from Bring It On. (Sorry I couldn't find a better video.)