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Plot: A down-and-out stuntman is on a quest to locate the missing star of his ex-girlfriend’s major film.
Film: The Fall Guy
Director:
David Leitch
Writers: Drew Pearce, Glen A. Larson
Starring: Ryan Gosling, Emily Blunt, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Hannah Waddingham, Winston Duke
The Fall Guy emerges as a heartfelt tribute to the often-overlooked stunt performers and coordinators in the film industry, skillfully blending humor with a character-centric narrative that is quickly defining David Leitch’s unique style.
Drawing from his own experience as a former stunt performer, Leitch crafts a meta-narrative that shines a light on those behind the camera. While it plays with familiar themes of Hollywood’s inner workings, it brilliantly injects humor with clever inside references, all while maintaining a warm and affectionate tone. The adrenaline-fueled stunt scenes—including daring helicopter jumps, intricate nightclub fight sequences, and explosive car chases on the beach—stand as thrilling accolades to the professionals who undertake these stunts.
The film centers around Ryan Gosling’s character, Colt Seavers, and Emily Blunt’s Jody Moreno. Their past relationship becomes a focal point of the film, particularly how they drifted apart following a tragic accident during filming. The considerable emphasis placed on the tension of their potential rekindling may polarize some viewers, yet it serves as a central charm of the narrative.
The plot unfolds as a mystery, with Tom Ryder (Aaron Taylor-Johnson)—the self-absorbed lead in the film within the film, ‘Metalstorm’—going missing. Gail Meyer (Hannah Waddingham), the ruthless producer, recruits Colt to help find him, setting off a whirlwind of chaotic action, comedy, and romance.
This review wouldn’t be complete without a nod to the stunt performers who stood in for the titular stuntman, including Justin Eaton, Troy Brown, Logan Holladay, and Ben Jenkin. Notably, Logan Holladay holds a Guinness World Record for the most car rolls, earning a clever nod in the film’s script.
In summary, The Fall Guy delivers a captivating, action-packed adventure that isn’t afraid to showcase its vulnerable moments. Ryan Gosling once again solidifies his status as the internet’s beloved favorite.
