The Fall Guy
One thing about watching movies in theaters nowadays is the experience itself. Post-pandemic life is odd, but the culture of going to the movies has become more of an occasion. Yes, streaming services are available. However, during a nationwide quarantine, being told you can’t go anywhere made going to the movies so much more tempting. No amount of technological advancement could replicate that emotional tie to silver screens and popcorn buckets. One new aspect I've come to appreciate is many directors and producers taking a moment to thank the audience for coming to the theater before the start of their film. It truly is an experience to see these projects on the big screen and with the intended audio experience upon creation. You can sense their pride in their work, and for me, it adds a layer of emotion when watching the movie. I understand what motivated them, and I feel much more strongly about what I am an audience to.
The Fall Guy starring Ryan Reynolds and Emily Blunt was hilarious. Their on-screen chemistry is fantastic, whether they're bantering or sharing a genuine moment. The stunts were brilliant, and the supporting cast delivered excellently. It was an absolute blast and the perfect movie to start the summer. Directed by former stuntman David Leitch, he introduced his film as a love letter to stunt people. As true as that is, this film was so fun outside of the action-packed onscreen stunts; there was a not-so-subtle romantic plot and hilarious scripting and performances. Moreover, this movie is such a fun watch for people who love to make movies! The culture of the creative process was captured in such a fun way, and the meta-references were tasteful and helped push the film along when the plot seemed to get lost in all the action. If you like action movies, if you like comedies, or anything in between, you will find something to enjoy about this movie. You can tell Leitch had his hands on this project. Every joke, stunt, camera angle— this was a meticulous labor of love and it shows.
Colt Seavers, a seasoned stunt double, experiences a setback when a dangerous stunt goes wrong, leaving him sidelined by injury for 18 months. During this time, he contemplates leaving the industry for good, but when his former producer, Gail, approaches him with an opportunity to double for a diva action star named Tom Ryder on the set of his ex-girlfriend Jody's directorial debut, Colt reluctantly agrees. The movie initially unfolds as a romantic comedy, with Colt and Jody navigating their relationship amidst the backdrop of the film industry. However, the plot takes a turn into mystery and action when Ryder goes missing, prompting Colt to become embroiled in a thrilling adventure to uncover the truth. Along the way, the film explores themes of risk-taking and the uncredited contributions of stunt performers to the movie industry. The story is punctuated by jaw-dropping stunt sequences, including a record-breaking cannon roll and a thrilling vehicle jump.
Ratings: 9.6/10
This movie was an absolute delight! The music, the writing—everything about it was just fantastic. I'd definitely suggest catching it in theaters if you can; there's something special about the big screen experience. It was charming and adrenaline rushing all at once, and talk about sound you can feel! But even if you can't make it to the theater, watching it at home is still a great choice. Honestly, I will be watching it again as soon as I can.
