The Fall Guy: Movie Review 2024
If you're looking for an entertaining flick that pays tribute to the unsung heroes of Hollywood while delivering plenty of high-octane thrills, then you need to check out The Fall Guy starring Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt.
Directed by David Leitch, the mastermind behind action hits like Atomic Blonde and Deadpool 2, this film is an absolute love letter to the stunt community. And who better to helm it than Leitch himself, a former stunt performer?
At its core, The Fall Guy follows a down-on-his-luck stuntman (Gosling) who gets roped into finding the missing star of his ex's (Blunt) big-budget movie. But it's so much more than that premise suggests.
A Clever Premise Packed With Meta Fun
One of the most delightful aspects is how self-referential and meta the movie is about the filmmaking process. As characters attempt to make a movie, their real lives bleed into the fictitious one in clever ways. The lingo and behind-the-scenes insights Leitch litters throughout will have any cinephile grinning from ear-to-ear.
The opening sequence alone, a breathtaking long take, immerses you in the preparation and focus required of stunt professionals. It's just one of many loving nods to an under-appreciated artform.
Top-Notch Action and Romance
Of course, this being a Leitch joint, you're going to get a hearty serving of slick, jaw-dropping action sequences that showcase the talents of stunt teams. Gosling himself pulls off some incredibly physical feats. A particular highlight is when his character reteams with an old four-legged scene partner for a raucous bit.
But The Fall Guy isn't all pulse-pounding set pieces. At its heart is a deftly-handled, very funny romantic comedy between the reluctant stuntman and first-time director exes played by Gosling and Blunt. Their sparkling banter and chemistry is so infectious, you can't help but get invested in their will-they-won't-they dynamic.
While the central missing person mystery takes a little while to get going, once it ramps up, it adds fuel to the entertaining fire. The film never takes itself too seriously, letting the inherent quirks and humor of movie-making shine through.
A Winning Tribute
The Fall Guy succeeds as both a wildly entertaining romantic action comedy and a heartfelt ode to the stunt performers who make the movie magic happen. Leitch's clear-eyed admiration for their craft is evident in every frame.
With terrific turns from Gosling and Blunt, loads of clever meta gags, and a story that reminds you just how much fun going to the movies can be, The Fall Guy is a total winner.
