This Is the End [2013]

Seth Rogen presents a wholly original premise: He and his movie buddies — all meta-playing themselves — party at James Franco’s house when the Apocalypse hits. The execution is nearly great, with Michael Cera and a musical finale as the highlights.

d: Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg | imdb.com | trailer | Emma Watson
Pineapple Express 2 | The Real World | Interview: Rogen, Goldberg

Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (2010)

Edgar Wright directs a mash-up of ideas — comic books, video games, Michael Cera’s deadpan comedy — into something just-right. Cera plays Scott Pilgrim, who crushes on Mary Elizabeth Winstead, who carries the baggage of seven evil ex-boyfriends.

d: Edgar Wright | imdb.com | trailer

Youth in Revolt (2010)

Michael Cera plays Nick Twisp (not just another movie virgin) and his supplementary persona Francois Dillinger (French, confident, daring) in a winning comedy with all sorts of extreme characters played by Zach Galifianakis, Ray Liotta and Steve Buscemi.

d: Miguel Arteta | imdb.com | trailer | Francois Dillinger | Say yes.

Year One (2009)

Harold Ramis returns to writing and directing with a sophomoric prehistoric effort. Jack Black plays Jack Black and Michael Cera his straight man. The movie has been made before — “Life of Brian,” “Wholly Moses” and “History of the World: Part 1.”

d: Harold Ramis | imdb.com | trailer | Holy of holies | Stoned