Director: David Leitch
Starring: Ryan Gosling, Emily Blunt, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Winston Duke, Hannah Waddingham
Genre: Action / Comedy / Romance
Runtime: 126 minutes
Release Date: May 3, 2024
Based on: The Fall Guy (1980s TV series by Glen A. Larson)
The Fall Guy is a modern love letter to Hollywood stunt performers, starring Ryan Gosling as Colt Seavers — a battle-scarred stuntman who’s pulled back into the industry after a mysterious disappearance. When the star of a big-budget sci-fi film goes missing, Colt is recruited by the film’s director (his ex, played by Emily Blunt) to help find him. What begins as a reluctant return quickly spirals into a dangerous real-life conspiracy.
1. Ryan Gosling’s Charming Performance
Gosling brings charisma, humor, and vulnerability to Colt Seavers. His natural comedic timing and physical commitment shine, delivering a performance that’s both hilarious and heartfelt.
2. Emily Blunt as the Emotional Core
Blunt plays Jody Moreno, Colt’s ex-girlfriend-turned-director, with strength and warmth. Her chemistry with Gosling is electric, and their banter adds emotional depth to the film.
3. High-Octane Stunts & Visual Flair
Director David Leitch, a former stuntman himself (John Wick, Atomic Blonde), uses his expertise to craft jaw-dropping practical stunts — from car flips to explosions — that celebrate old-school action filmmaking.
4. Meta-Hollywood Satire
The film smartly pokes fun at celebrity culture, big-budget egos, and the way the film industry treats its behind-the-scenes workers. It walks a fine line between homage and parody, often to great effect.
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Predictable Plot: While fun, the mystery at the heart of the film doesn’t offer many surprises. It follows a familiar structure without major narrative risks.
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Pacing Issues: The middle act slightly drags, particularly during some of the romantic flashbacks, which occasionally slow the momentum.
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Underused Supporting Cast: Talented actors like Winston Duke and Hannah Waddingham could have had more screen time or character development.
The Fall Guy is a stylish, entertaining action-comedy that pays tribute to unsung heroes of the film industry: stunt performers. Anchored by two charismatic leads, it blends humor, romance, and thrilling set pieces in a way that feels both nostalgic and fresh. It’s not revolutionary, but it’s undeniably fun.
⭐ Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
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Fans of action comedies like Deadpool 2, Bullet Train, and The Nice Guys
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Anyone who loves Hollywood “behind-the-scenes” stories
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Viewers looking for a feel-good ride with strong lead chemistry
