Sudbury native. I'm familiar with most regional talent (Affleck, Damon, The Walbergs, Eliza Dushku, Clark Gregg, Adam Sandler, etc). Region of Champions!
But, Evans has a great breakout role as an action star in Cellular (Speed meets Taken) and a heroic role in Sunshine, before the Fantastic Four movies.
To be fair, you are right. I knew immediately Chris Evans was the actor from the Fox Fantastic Four movie. But even from that film, I really didn't take to him as Johnny Storm. But as Nick Gant in the movie 'Push' I was more impressed with his performance.
But once he played Captain America, I was surprised I never pictured him in this role previously. He was the ultimate solid fit for this role.
Even though I didn't care much for the first Captain movie, he was perfect for the role. You could see early glimpses with his role in Sunshine (self-sacrifice) that made him the perfect fit.
Sunshine Movie spoiler!