Hollywood has always been a place of glittering successes and unexpected flops, and Ryan Gosling’s latest film, “The Fall Guy,” finds itself in the latter category. Despite the star-studded cast and a robust production budget of $127 million, the film’s box office journey has been anything but stellar. Grossing a modest $145 million globally, the film’s financial performance starkly contrasts with its initial expectations as a major summer blockbuster.
A Stuntman’s Plight Captivates Some, Not All
Adapted from the popular ’80s TV show, “The Fall Guy” casts Gosling as a daring stuntman wrapped in a whirlwind of conspiracy and betrayal involving the lead actor of a film directed by his ex-girlfriend, portrayed by Emily Blunt. Directed by David Leitch, known for “Bullet Train,” the movie aimed to blend action and comedy to capture the audience’s imagination. While it managed to impress a segment of viewers and some critics, it did not resonate widely enough to avert its box office bomb status.
The mixed critical reception was highlighted by the response from Stephen King, a prolific author with a deep footprint in both the literary and film industries. King, whose adaptations have seen immense success, was less impressed with “The Fall Guy.” He shared his thoughts on social media: “Yes, definitely fun, but great fun? Perhaps not.”
This lukewarm sentiment has sparked a variety of reactions among Gosling’s fans, with some defending the film vigorously.
Fan Reactions: From Defiance to Agreement
Social media platforms, particularly X (formerly Twitter), have become battlegrounds where fans express their loyalty or disappointment. Following King’s review, fans like @Trizzydri186 humorously noted: “This the same guy who said The Flash was great“
Others, like @MeleeGames, took a more contrarian view: “If Stephen King isn’t a fan it must be good.”
These comments underline the diverse expects.
“The Fall Guy” was also notable for its quick shift from theaters to digital platforms, becoming available on PVOD and digital stores just 18 days after its theatrical debut. This strategy, likely a move by Universal Studios to mitigate financial losses, may have also contributed to its underwhelming box office numbers. The film’s early digital release points to a growing trend in the film industry where studios juggle between maximizing theatrical revenue and tapping into the digital market swiftly.
What’s Next for Gosling and Leitch?
Despite the setback with “The Fall Guy,” the careers of Ryan Gosling and David Leitch are far from dimmed. Gosling continues to be a sought-after lead in Hollywood, with upcoming projects that fans eagerly anticipate. Similarly, Leitch’s reputation as an action director remains intact, with audiences looking forward to his next cinematic venture.
As “The Fall Guy” continues to play in theaters and is available for rent on platforms like Apple TV, it serves as a case study in the unpredictable world of film, where not all investments yield expected returns. The film, with its highs and lows, remains a testament to the relentless pursuit of entertainment and storytelling in Hollywood.
