Ryan Reynolds has undoubtedly become one of Hollywood’s most beloved and successful actors, thanks to his charismatic on-screen presence and quick wit. From his breakout performance in “Van Wilder” to his iconic role as Deadpool, Reynolds has managed to captivate audiences with his unique blend of humor and charm. However, there are a few underrated performances in his filmography that have gone unnoticed by many, and are definitely worth a closer look.
One of Reynolds’ most underrated performances can be found in the 2005 film “Just Friends.” In this romantic comedy, Reynolds plays the role of Chris Brander, a former high school geek turned successful music executive. The movie follows Chris as he returns to his hometown and tries to win over his high school crush, played by Amy Smart. Reynolds delivers a truly heartfelt and hilarious performance in this film. His comedic timing is impeccable, and his portrayal of the awkward and lovable Chris Brander is both relatable and endearing.
Another overlooked gem in Reynolds’ career is “Buried,” a 2010 thriller directed by Rodrigo Cortés. In this claustrophobic and intense film, Reynolds portrays Paul Conroy, an American truck driver who finds himself buried alive in a coffin somewhere in Iraq. The entire movie takes place inside the coffin, with Reynolds as the sole actor on screen. Despite the limited setting, Reynolds delivers a captivating performance that holds the audience’s attention from start to finish. He effortlessly portrays the desperation and fear that Paul experiences throughout the film, making it an unforgettable and deeply emotional performance.
In 2014, Reynolds starred in “The Voices,” a dark comedy directed by Marjane Satrapi. This film tells the story of Jerry, a socially awkward man who works at a bathtub factory and has a talking dog and cat as his only friends. Reynolds’ performance in this movie is truly remarkable as he effortlessly transitions between a charming, innocent demeanor and a disturbed and unhinged character. His ability to navigate between humor and horror is what makes this performance stand out. Reynolds showcases his range as an actor and proves that he can excel in a variety of genres.
Another underrated film worth mentioning is “Mississippi Grind” from 2015. In this drama directed by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck, Reynolds stars alongside Ben Mendelsohn as Curtis, a charismatic gambler who befriends a down-on-his-luck man named Gerry. Reynolds brings an undeniable charm to his role as Curtis, effortlessly capturing the allure and excitement of a high-stakes gambler. His chemistry with Mendelsohn is captivating, making their friendship feel genuine and their journey unpredictable.
Finally, Reynolds’ performance in the 2019 film “6 Underground” directed by Michael Bay should not be overlooked. In this action-packed thriller, Reynolds plays the leader of an elite vigilante group who fakes their own deaths to eliminate notorious criminals. Despite the film’s explosive action and larger-than-life set pieces, Reynolds manages to bring depth and humor to his character. He effortlessly balances the intense action sequences with heartfelt moments, reminding audiences that he is more than just a comedic actor.
While Ryan Reynolds has had numerous successful roles throughout his career, these performances highlight his versatility and depth as an actor. From romantic comedies to dark thrillers and action-packed blockbusters, Reynolds has consistently proven his ability to engage audiences and deliver memorable performances. So, the next time you’re exploring Reynolds’ filmography, remember to pay attention to these underrated gems that showcase his range and talent.