Film Review - The Fall Guy
Images courtesy of Universal Pictures.
The stunt community are undoubtedly the unsung heroes of the film industry. Movies would not be possible without stunt workers, risking their lives every day to get that one perfect shot. Yet they have been surprisingly undervalued over the years, further proven by the absence of their own Oscars category. That may soon change thanks to director David Leitch’s (Atomic Blonde, Bullet Train) latest action-comedy blockbuster The Fall Guy, which is loosely based on the ‘80s TV series of the same name.
Colt Seavers (Ryan Gosling) is booked and busy as one of Hollywood’s most popular stuntmen, until an on-set accident almost ends his career. He springs back into action when producer Gail (Hannah Waddingham) recruits him to work on director Jody Moreno’s (Emily Blunt) new film Metalstorm. Jody is Colt’s ex-girlfriend, whom he cut off after his accident and is now determined to win back. Things get complicated when Colt learns that his long-time double Tom Ryder (Aaron Taylor-Johnson), who is also the star of Metalstorm, has mysteriously gone missing. While trying to track down Tom, Colt finds himself involved in a sinister plot, forcing him to become a real-life action hero and part of something far more dangerous than any stunt he has previously performed.
The Fall Guy is a film that proudly wears its heart on its sleeve, unabashedly embracing its old school thrills and action. It is a testament to the people who make movies, while also offering up plenty of clever social commentary and satire addressing the industry. With the perfect mix of excitement, humor and romance, it makes for a ridiculously entertaining two hours and not a dull moment in sight. Audiences have come to love star Ryan Gosling’s silly side since his performances in Barbie and The Nice Guys, and here Gosling delivers more of the same goods. While the actor started out as a go-to romantic lead early in his career, The Fall Guy further validates his unlikely transition into one of the finest comedic actors working today. His microexpressions, delivery and timing are unmatched, while also maintaining his signature charisma and suavity. The always wonderful Emily Blunt makes for an equally charming co-star and lead, and her on-screen chemistry with Gosling is palpable. Being a movie about stunt work, The Fall Guy also features phenomenal action sequences and set pieces, both in the real world of the film and behind-the-scenes as Jody shoots Metalstorm. While the film’s central mystery is slightly thin, it doesn’t really matter when viewers are having this much fun.
The Fall Guy is the rare blockbuster studio film that feels simultaneously old school and fresh in execution. It is incredibly funny, fast-paced and deeply romantic. At its core, however, the film is a love letter to the stunt community and the incredible work they do to entertain audiences.
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The Fall Guy is screening in cinemas now. For tickets and more info, click here.