Gal Gadot, known for her iconic role as Wonder Woman, has long been a subject of debate among movie critics and fans alike regarding her acting skills. While her performances in blockbuster hits like “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” have garnered acclaim, it’s her role in the lesser-known action comedy “Keeping Up with the Joneses” that might just alter the prevailing narrative about her talent. Despite the film’s poor performance at the box office, where it garnered a modest $28 million against a $40 million budget, Gadot’s portrayal managed to shine a different light on her capabilities as an actress.
A Role That Defied Expectations
In “Keeping Up with the Joneses,” Gadot plays Natalie Jones, one half of a mysterious and glamorous couple who move into a quiet suburban neighborhood, sparking intrigue and suspicion among the locals. The 2016 film, directed by Greg Mottola of “Adventureland” and “Superbad” fame, might not have made a significant dent at the box office, but it offered Gadot a unique opportunity to showcase her comedic timing and charm.
Critics often divided over Gadot’s performances, found a surprising delight in her role. Despite the film’s overall stale script, Gadot’s portrayal was noted for its allure and charm.
“I don’t like the meat-and-potatoes, obvious humor. I like it when it surprises you, when it comes from an unexpected place.”
This approach seemed to resonate well with her character, a spy hiding in plain sight, which allowed Gadot to play against type and explore a more nuanced comedic expression.
Critical Reception and Audience Admiration
The movie, which also starred Jon Hamm, Zach Galifianakis, and Isla Fisher, did not fare well critically, receiving a mere 20% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. However, reviews often highlighted Gadot’s performance as a bright spot. Viewers appreciated her portrayal of Natalie Jones, finding her both charming and enigmatic, traits that lent depth to the otherwise straightforward comedy.
Gadot’s work in the film, coupled with her other roles that year, earned her a nomination for the Teen Choice Award for Choice Movie Actress – Comedy, further proving that her appeal extends beyond the action-packed scenes of the DC universe.
While “Keeping Up with the Joneses” might not have been a box office success, it played a crucial role in demonstrating Gal Gadot’s versatility as an actress. Beyond the high stakes of superhero cinema, Gadot showed that she could hold her own in a comedy, bringing charm and a subtle wit to her role. As audiences continue to follow her career, Gadot’s performances, even in less successful films, contribute to a broader understanding of her talent.
In the landscape of Hollywood where typecasting is common, Gadot’s ability to diverge from her well-known persona and embrace diverse roles may eventually shift public and critical perception. Perhaps, in the future, we will see Gadot taking on more such roles that challenge the conventional expectations of her as merely an action star, further cementing her place as a versatile and skilled actress in the industry.