Viewing the evolution of Hollywood films over time, I tend to place our male movie stars in one of two categories: romantic leads, and what we'll call "everyman" leads.

First and foremost, romantic leads attract the ladies in a way that seems effortless. Exuding self-confidence, they represent who we'd like to be-or at least look like. Today's romantic leads include Brad Pitt, George Clooney, and Jude Law. A generation ago,...