Stars Collaborate: When Actors Work with Their Real-Life Friends in Film

The idea of actors collaborating with friends on films is not a new one, but it's one that has unlocked some fantastic results. One example of such a collaboration is the film 'The Anniversary Party.' Starring Jennifer Jason Leigh and Alan Cumming, the premise behind the movie was simple: work with friends who happen to be actors. This approach to filmmaking not only creates a unique dynamic but also ensures a level of comfort and chemistry not always achieved in traditional setups.

The world became hooked on the sitcom 'Friends' in the late 1990s and early 2000s, and its six main characters—Ross, Rachel, Monica, Chandler, Phoebe, and Joey—became culturally significant. Yet, the success of the show didn't guarantee success for its stars in Hollywood. Interestingly, we've compiled the box office performance of the Friends cast post-2004 to see how they followed up on their sitcom success in the film industry.

David Schwimmer: Voice Acting Triumphs

David Schwimmer, known for his role as Ross in 'Friends,' had surprisingly successful film and even voice acting career. While he didn't dominate the box office on his own, his post-'Friends' earnings speak to his potential as a voice actor.

Earning a total of nearly ￡90 million, Schwimmer's main revenue comes from voicing Melman in the 'Madagascar' franchise. His film credits include directing 'Run Fat Boy Run' and his Broadway play 'Fault Lines,' but voice acting appears to have been his most lucrative venture.

Jennifer Aniston: From Rom-Com to Edge

Jennifer Aniston, starring in so many romantic comedies in the last decade, is undoubtedly the lead in the Friends cast when it comes to box office success and stardom. Post-'Friends,' Aniston grossed a total of ￡1.05 billion, continuously expanding her repertoire from comic rom-coms to more audacious roles.

Recent highlights of Aniston's filmography include 'Horrible Bosses,' where she portrays a formidable character, and 'Cake,' an upcoming film where she plays a woman coping with chronic pain. Critics and audience alike have praised these performances, with many suggesting that 'Cake' could land her an Oscar nomination.

Courteney Cox: Voice Work and Thrills

Courteney Cox, the film version of Ross, has had a varied post-'Friends' career, drawing from both her informational role on the show and her recent television roles. Much of her total earnings of ￡267 million come from voice work in movies such as 'Barnyard: The Original Party Animals' and from the horror sequel 'Scream 4.'

In recent years, Cox has channeled her career into television, notably portraying an alluring older woman in the hit series 'Cougar Town' since 2009. Her transition from the small screen to voice work and back again illustrates the diverse paths that 'Friends' actors have taken in the film industry.

Whether through collaborations with friends or venturing into voice acting or horror films, these actors have demonstrated versatility and adaptability in their post-Friends careers. These examples remind us that the success of a star often depends more on their personal instincts and interests than solely on the legacy of the show they are known for. As the realm of entertainment continues to evolve, the partnership between actors and their friends in film remains an intriguing and worthwhile exploration.