Rich Evans: From Movie Reviews to Internet Icon

Early Life and Career

Rich Evans was born in Aurora, Illinois, on April 25, 1983. Information about Evans' early life, including his upbringing and education, is not readily available in the public domain. Evans has chosen to maintain a degree of privacy regarding his personal life, focusing primarily on his career in entertainment.

Evans' journey into the world of film and internet entertainment began in his early adulthood. He developed a passion for filmmaking and began working on various projects, often collaborating with friends who shared his interests. This period marked the beginning of his creative endeavors, which would later evolve into a successful career.

Evans' early work primarily consisted of low-budget, independent films. These projects, while not widely known, served as a training ground for him to hone his skills as a filmmaker, writer, and actor. He experimented with different genres and styles, gradually developing his unique comedic sensibility and filmmaking style.

One of Evans' earliest notable projects was his involvement with Red Letter Media, an independent film and production company. Founded with friends, including Mike Stoklasa, Red Letter Media became a platform for Evans to showcase his talents to a wider audience. The company gained recognition for its comedic film reviews, particularly the "Half in the Bag" series, which featured Evans as one of the hosts.

Through his work with Red Letter Media, Evans' comedic timing, improvisational skills, and distinctive persona began to resonate with viewers. His on-screen presence, characterized by deadpan humor and a relatable everyman quality, quickly made him a fan favorite. His ability to find humor in unexpected places and his willingness to embrace absurdity contributed to the unique appeal of Red Letter Media's content.

As Red Letter Media's popularity grew, so did Evans' profile in the world of online entertainment. His work on the channel helped to establish him as a recognizable figure in the realm of internet comedy and film criticism. His early experiences with low-budget filmmaking and his subsequent success with Red Letter Media laid the foundation for his evolving career as an entertainer.

Feature	Rich Evans
Occupation	Actor, Internet Personality, Writer, Producer
Known for	RedLetterMedia, Half in the Bag, Best of the Worst
Years active	2006-present

Breakthrough with RedLetterMedia

Rich Evans’ rise to internet fame is inextricably linked with RedLetterMedia, the production company he co-founded with Mike Rolfe and Jack Packard. While the group had been creating content since the early 2000s, it was their “Half in the Bag” series that truly launched them into the spotlight. The show, featuring Evans and Jay Bauman delivering often humorous and always insightful film reviews, quickly gained a cult following.

Evans, with his everyman charm and genuine passion for film, became the breakout star. His on-screen persona, a blend of affable goofiness and sharp wit, resonated with viewers. Whether he was dissecting the latest blockbuster or championing obscure cult classics, Evans brought a unique blend of humor and genuine film criticism that set “Half in the Bag” apart.

The success of “Half in the Bag” opened doors for Evans. He became a recognizable face in the world of online film criticism, appearing on podcasts, collaborating with other YouTubers, and even landing roles in independent films. His work with RedLetterMedia, particularly his comedic timing and improvisational skills, earned him recognition within the industry.

However, it's important to note that Evans’ success extends beyond just one series. His contributions to other RedLetterMedia projects like “Best of the Worst” and “Re:View” have been equally significant. In “Best of the Worst,” Evans joins his co-hosts in watching and riffing on terrible movies, often with hilarious results. His infectious laughter and genuine reactions to the cinematic abominations they endure have become a trademark of the show.

Through RedLetterMedia, Rich Evans has cemented his place as a beloved figure in internet culture. His comedic talents, coupled with his genuine love for film, have earned him a dedicated following. As RedLetterMedia continues to produce engaging and entertaining content, Evans remains a vital part of their success, proving that sometimes, the most unlikely stars can emerge from the most unexpected places.

The Birth of The Nerd

Rich Evans, the beloved internet personality and one half of the dynamic duo behind RedLetterMedia, didn't just stumble into the role of "The Nerd." It was a persona carefully crafted, a caricature of every basement-dwelling, VHS-hoarding, pop-culture obsessive that resonated with a generation raised on a steady diet of bad movies and dial-up internet.

While Rich's comedic timing and genuine reactions to cinematic atrocities are undeniably hilarious, the character of "The Nerd" taps into something deeper. He embodies a specific type of nostalgia, a love for the forgotten and the obscure, a passion for the things that made us cringe and laugh in equal measure.

The Nerd, with his signature oversized glasses, disheveled hair, and collection of vintage video games and action figures, became an avatar for a generation weaned on the golden age of VHS rentals and late-night cable TV. He wasn't afraid to embrace his inner geek, to celebrate the weird and wonderful world of cult classics and B-movies.

Rich's portrayal of The Nerd wasn't a cynical mockery of fandom; it was a celebration of it. He understood the joy of discovering a hidden gem in a bargain bin, the thrill of debating the merits of a terrible sequel, the shared experience of watching something so bad, it's good.

The Nerd's enduring appeal lies in his authenticity. He's not afraid to be himself, to geek out over his passions, to revel in the absurdity of it all. He reminds us that it's okay to be passionate about the things we love, no matter how niche or obscure they may seem.

In a world increasingly obsessed with irony and detachment, The Nerd is a breath of fresh air, a reminder that it's okay to be enthusiastic, to be genuine, to be a little bit nerdy. He is a testament to the power of nostalgia, the enduring appeal of pop culture, and the importance of embracing our inner geek.

Plinkett Reviews and Cult Following

Rich Evans, beyond his work with RedLetterMedia, has garnered a unique kind of fame for his starring role in the "Plinkett Reviews". These reviews, primarily focusing on the Star Wars prequel trilogy, feature Evans as a fictional character named "Mr. Plinkett". Donning a decaying Ronald Reagan mask and speaking in a rambling, darkly comedic voice, Evans as Plinkett dissects the films with a mix of genuine criticism and absurdist humor.

The Plinkett character, a seemingly senile old man living in his filth-ridden basement, provides a bizarrely compelling lens through which to analyze the Star Wars prequels. His critiques, often laced with profanity and non-sequiturs, resonate with viewers who found the films lacking. Plinkett's rants about midichlorians, Jar Jar Binks, and the complexities of galactic trade federations have become iconic within the Star Wars fandom and internet culture at large.

The success of the Plinkett reviews lies in their unique blend of humor and insightful criticism. While Plinkett's persona is inherently comedic, the reviews themselves delve into legitimate filmmaking flaws, dissecting plot holes, editing choices, and character development. This combination of humor and analysis has resonated with a large audience, solidifying the reviews' cult status.

The impact of the Plinkett reviews extends beyond the Star Wars fandom. They have become a benchmark for online film criticism, inspiring countless imitators and shaping the language of internet film discourse. Phrases coined by Plinkett, like "George Lucas raped my childhood," have entered the online lexicon, demonstrating the reviews' cultural impact.

The Plinkett reviews have cemented Rich Evans's place in internet culture. While he may not be a household name in the traditional sense, his portrayal of the bizarre and hilarious Mr. Plinkett has earned him a dedicated following and cemented his legacy as a cult icon.

Beyond Reviews: Filmmaking and Acting

Rich Evans, best known for his work on RedLetterMedia, has carved a unique path in the world of film analysis and comedy. But beyond the hilarious reviews and skits, there's a deep appreciation for the craft of filmmaking and acting that shines through.

Evans's own ventures into filmmaking, most notably with movies like "Feeding Frenzy" and "Space Cop," offer a glimpse into his understanding of the medium. These films, often intentionally cheesy and over-the-top, showcase an awareness of genre tropes and a willingness to experiment with narrative and form. They're not just comedic exercises; they're a playground for exploring the technical and creative aspects of filmmaking.

His background as an actor, evident in his comedic timing and expressive delivery, adds another layer to his film analysis. He understands the nuances of performance, the challenges actors face, and the impact a well-crafted character can have on a film. This insight allows him to dissect performances with a keen eye, praising genuine emotion and calling out wooden acting with equal fervor.

Evans's approach to filmmaking and acting is inherently intertwined with his comedic sensibility. He uses humor not just to entertain, but also to illuminate the absurdity often found in bad movies. By exaggerating flaws and highlighting inconsistencies, he encourages viewers to think critically about the films they watch.

In a media landscape saturated with overly serious film criticism, Evans's approach is refreshingly honest and engaging. He doesn't shy away from expressing his opinions, whether positive or negative, and he does so with a contagious enthusiasm that has resonated with millions of viewers.

Ultimately, Rich Evans's work transcends the realm of mere film review. He's a passionate advocate for good storytelling, a student of cinema, and a comedian who uses his platform to celebrate the art of filmmaking and acting in all its flawed glory.

Collaborations and Other Projects

Rich Evans is well-known for his collaborative work, particularly with RedLetterMedia, the production company he co-founded with Mike Stoklasa and Jay Bauman. He's a prominent figure in their popular series like "Best of the Worst" and "Half in the Bag," showcasing his comedic timing and knack for riffing on terrible (and occasionally good) movies.

Beyond RedLetterMedia, Rich has collaborated on various projects. He co-hosted the podcast "The Nerd Crew" with Stoklasa and Bauman, delving into geek culture and personal anecdotes. He's also appeared on other podcasts like "I Sell Comics" and "We Hate Movies," further solidifying his presence in the online film and comedy communities.

His acting career extends beyond RedLetterMedia productions. He's had roles in independent films like "Feeding Frenzy" and "Space Cop," showcasing his range and willingness to embrace quirky, independent projects.

Rich's commitment to collaboration extends to his fans. He actively engages with them at conventions and online, further solidifying his down-to-earth and approachable persona. This connection with his audience has contributed to his enduring popularity and the success of his various projects.

Impact on Internet Culture and Fandom

Rich Evans' impact on internet culture and fandom is deeply intertwined with his work on the RedLetterMedia YouTube channel. His everyman persona, characterized by his dry wit and candid reactions to bad movies, has resonated with a large online audience. This has led to the creation of countless memes, catchphrases, and inside jokes within internet communities.

Evans' popularity stems from his authenticity. He doesn't shy away from expressing his genuine opinions, even if they are unpopular. This has made him a relatable figure for many, particularly those who share his love of film and pop culture. His rants, often filled with colorful language and humorous observations, have become legendary, with clips frequently shared and quoted across social media platforms.

Beyond the humor, Evans and RedLetterMedia have fostered a strong sense of community among their viewers. The channel's comment sections and dedicated subreddits are filled with fans engaging in discussions, sharing memes, and celebrating the shared experience of watching Evans dissect terrible movies. This sense of belonging is further amplified through live events and meet-and-greets, where fans can interact with Evans and the RedLetterMedia crew in person.

Evans' influence extends beyond the realm of RedLetterMedia. His image and catchphrases have been adopted by other creators and have permeated online spaces dedicated to film discussion, video game reviews, and general internet humor. His impact on internet culture is a testament to the power of authenticity and shared experiences in the digital age.