The Fall Guy (2024)
Directed by: David Leitch
Starring: Ryan Gosling, Emily Blunt, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Hannah Waddingham, Teresa Palmer, Stephanie Hsu, Winston Duke
Release Dates: March 12, 2024 (SXSW), May 3, 2024 (US)
Running Time: 126 minutes
Budget: $125–150 million
Box Office: $181.1 million
Overview
This thrilling and comedic twist to the Hollywood stunt action movie is Fall Guy, directed by David Leitch, with Ryan Gosling, Emily Blunt, and Aaron Taylor-Johnson. In that aspect, this action-comedy happens to be an adaptation from the 80s TV series of the same name, providing a new storyline revolving around a former stuntman who becomes entangled in a web of mystery and conspiracy. With a cast of stars and high-octane stunts, The Fall Guy captures both the grit and humor of Hollywood’s behind-the-scenes world.
Plot Summary
The movie centers on Colt Seavers (Ryan Gosling): an erstwhile Hollywood stuntman in the zenith of his career, whose serious back injury resulted from being crushed by a whale while attempting to execute a certain trick. At the time of this, he was working as a valet in a small Mexican restaurant when approached by Gail Meyer (Hannah Waddingham), a producer of his ex-girlfriend’s directorial debut. His ex-girlfriend, Jody Moreno (Emily Blunt), is directing her first feature film, a grand space opera called Metalstorm, starring action hero Tom Ryder (Aaron Taylor-Johnson). The only problem is that Tom has gone missing, and Gail needs Colt to find him before the film’s production gets completely out of hand.
The more Colt delves into the mystery of Tom’s disappearance, the deeper he finds himself in dangerous territory. Colt faces various shady characters who were also in Tom’s bad books. He had to relive old times with Jody while going through the adventures of this conspiracy and getting entangled in it due to the secrets that Tom had left behind. The entire journey was filled with thrills and comedy, racing through the streets of Sydney, Australia.
Cast and Characters
- Ryan Gosling as Colt Seavers: The lead stuntman whose fall from fame leads him back to the world of stunts under perilous circumstances.
- Emily Blunt as Jody Moreno: A first-time director and Colt’s ex-girlfriend. The complex relationship between Colt and Jody adds depth to the storyline, blending romance with action.
- Aaron Taylor-Johnson as Tom Ryder: A Hollywood action star whose disappearance fuels the central mystery.
- Hannah Waddingham as Gail Meyer: The pragmatic producer who lures Colt back into the chaotic world of stunts.
- Teresa Palmer as Iggy Starr: Tom’s girlfriend and co-star, whose loyalty and motives add further intrigue.
- Stephanie Hsu as Alma Milan: Tom’s personal assistant, who aids Colt in uncovering the truth.
- Winston Duke as Dan Tucker: Colt’s longtime friend and stunt coordinator, providing comedic relief and action expertise.
Behind the Scenes: Production and Filming
The Fall Guy was in production since 2022. It was action-in-motion through the direction of David Leitch, whose name was associated with other action films like Deadpool 2 and John Wick. Principal photography took place in Sydney, Australia, but the shoots were taken at some popular destinations such as the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. Practical stunts drive the action in the movie, one particularly intense sequence proving to break the Guinness World Record for most car cannon rolls in a single stunt-a layer of authenticity separating The Fall Guy.
Cinematic Techniques and Visual Appeal
Jonathan Sela’s cinematography has brought in the movie urban landscapes and scenes of intense chases with gritty close-ups to be involved with Colt’s world. Additionally, Dominic Lewis along with other singers such as AC/DC, Taylor Swift, and Blake Shelton, all increase the dynamic of this film with hits mixed together with a little nostalgia from a very ancient series.
Music and Soundtrack
Dominic Lewis has written the film’s score that has a perfect mix of action-packed energy and comic beats throughout the movie. It has the most iconic tracks of AC/DC, Taylor Swift, Kiss, The Darkness, and even a rendition of “Unknown Stuntman” by Blake Shelton, all the way to paying tribute to the original series theme song. All these songs will boost the atmosphere of the film and will infuse energy and wit into the stunt sequences as well as Colt’s journey.
Critical Reception
The Fall Guy premiered at SXSW in 2024, where it received mostly positive reviews. While it was criticized for its uneven execution in some scenes, reviewers were welcoming the balance of humor and action with heartfelt emotional appeal. Gosling and Blunt’s chemistry added an emotional depth to what would otherwise have been just another high-stakes heist movie. It did not sell as well as it did to the box office worldwide grossing $181 million; however, its production was around $125–150 million. The Fall Guy remains a cult favorite quickly through the hearts of viewers because of its action-comedy and 80’s theme.
Box Office Performance
Fall Guy started at number one in the US on May 3, 2024. Weekend grossed $27.7 million but it underperformed compared to estimates as competition was huge. It is still below breaking even in terms of its production budget and marketing costs. But studio is supposed to lose $50 million, according to the estimation. But with home media release and digital, charm of the movie and the nostalgic factor will keep them going for some more time.
Where to Watch and Home Media Release
The Fall Guy went digital on purchase from May 21, 2024, with another 20 minutes in the extended cut. It later came on DVD, Blu-ray, and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray on July 23, 2024, for those who wanted a copy.
Final Thoughts
The Fall Guy (2024) is a fun action-comedy that pays homage to the stunt industry and also serves as a nostalgic nod to the original 1980s TV series. David Leitch’s direction, along with the dynamic performances by Gosling and Blunt, makes it an exciting addition to the action-comedy genre. From its incredible stunts to its witty screenplay, The Fall Guy appeals to fans of both high-energy action and light-hearted comedy. Whether you are a fan of the original series or simply love an adrenaline-packed story with heart, then The Fall Guy is well worth watching.
