As the Oscars loom large on the cinematic horizon, there’s no better moment to revisit the body of work of one of Hollywood’s most versatile and consistently compelling actors: Ryan Gosling. Over the years, Gosling has deftly navigated between heart-wrenching dramas, charming romantic comedies, and intense thrillers, all the while crafting characters that linger long after the credits roll. If you’re looking to reacquaint yourself with his finest performances or discover them for the first time, these ten films encapsulate why Ryan Gosling remains a towering figure in modern cinema. Queue up these titles and immerse yourself in the world of a performer who’s as enigmatic as he is talented.
1. La La Land (2016)
It’s impossible to discuss Ryan Gosling’s career without spotlighting La La Land. Directed by Damien Chazelle, this modern musical is a love letter to Los Angeles, jazz, and the bittersweet nature of dreams. Gosling stars as Sebastian, a struggling jazz pianist with aspirations of opening his own club. His chemistry with co-star Emma Stone, who plays an aspiring actress, is nothing short of electric. Together, they weave a tapestry of emotion that oscillates between the highs of love and the lows of unfulfilled dreams.
Gosling’s portrayal of Sebastian is both charming and melancholic, his passion for jazz imbued with a sense of longing that mirrors the film’s nostalgic tone. The dance numbers and musical performances are delightful, but it’s the emotional depth Gosling brings to the role that cements La La Land as a modern classic. This performance earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Actor and solidified his status as one of Hollywood’s leading men.
2. Drive (2011)
In Drive, Gosling plays a character known simply as “The Driver,” a stuntman who moonlights as a getaway driver in Los Angeles. This neo-noir thriller, directed by Nicolas Winding Refn, is a masterclass in style, tension, and minimalism. Gosling’s performance is a study in restraint; he speaks sparingly, letting his actions and intense gazes convey a wealth of emotion.
The film’s moody, atmospheric tone is punctuated by bursts of violence, and Gosling’s stoic presence anchors the film. Drive is as much about what’s left unsaid as what’s on the screen, with Gosling’s portrayal of the enigmatic driver being a testament to his ability to command the screen without saying a word. The film’s impact on pop culture, from its iconic jacket to its synth-heavy soundtrack, is undeniable, and it remains one of Gosling’s most iconic roles.
3. The Notebook (2004)
Before La La Land, before Drive, there was The Notebook. This adaptation of Nicholas Sparks’ novel catapulted Gosling into the realm of romantic leading men. As Noah Calhoun, a young man hopelessly in love with Allie Hamilton (played by Rachel McAdams), Gosling delivers a performance that is both tender and passionate.
The Notebook is the quintessential love story, complete with grand gestures, tearful reunions, and a love that defies the odds. Gosling’s portrayal of Noah is earnest and sincere, capturing the intensity of first love and the longing that comes with lost time. The film has since become a cultural touchstone in the romance genre, and Gosling’s role remains a favorite among his fans.
4. Blade Runner 2049 (2017)
Stepping into the world of Ridley Scott’s iconic Blade Runner is no small feat, but in Blade Runner 2049, Gosling does so with aplomb. Directed by Denis Villeneuve, this sequel is a visually stunning exploration of identity, memory, and what it means to be human. Gosling plays K, a replicant who uncovers a long-buried secret that could change the course of society.
Gosling’s performance is quiet and introspective, perfectly matching the film’s contemplative tone. As K grapples with his own sense of self and the revelations he uncovers, Gosling subtly conveys the inner turmoil of a being caught between two worlds. The film’s breathtaking visuals and haunting score, combined with Gosling’s measured performance, make Blade Runner 2049 a standout in the sci-fi genre and a must-watch for fans of the original.
5. Blue Valentine (2010)
If The Notebook is the fairy tale of love, Blue Valentine is its stark, unflinching reality. In this raw, intimate portrayal of a marriage falling apart, Gosling stars alongside Michelle Williams in a performance that is nothing short of devastating. The film’s non-linear narrative takes the audience through the highs of the couple’s early romance and the lows of their deteriorating relationship.
Gosling’s portrayal of Dean, a man who is desperately trying to hold on to his marriage, is one of his most emotionally intense roles. His chemistry with Williams is palpable, and the authenticity of their performances makes the film’s depiction of love, loss, and heartbreak all the more powerful. Blue Valentine is a brutally honest look at the complexities of relationships, and Gosling’s performance is a testament to his ability to convey deep, often painful, emotions on screen.
6. The Big Short (2015)
In The Big Short, Gosling shows off his comedic chops as Jared Vennett, a slick, self-assured bond trader who plays a key role in the unraveling of the 2008 financial crisis. Directed by Adam McKay, the film is a fast-paced, satirical look at the events leading up to the housing market crash, and Gosling’s performance is a standout in an ensemble cast that includes Christian Bale, Steve Carell, and Brad Pitt.
Gosling’s character is both charismatic and abrasive, providing much of the film’s dark humor. His narration breaks the fourth wall, guiding the audience through the complex financial jargon with a wink and a nod. The Big Short is a sharp, insightful film, and Gosling’s performance adds a layer of energy and wit that helps make the dense subject matter both accessible and engaging.
7. Crazy, Stupid, Love. (2011)
Gosling’s role in Crazy, Stupid, Love. proved that he could excel in romantic comedies just as easily as in more serious dramas. As Jacob Palmer, a smooth-talking ladies’ man who takes Steve Carell’s character under his wing, Gosling is equal parts charming and hilarious. His on-screen chemistry with Emma Stone is once again electric, and their scenes together are among the film’s highlights.
The film is a delightful exploration of love, relationships, and the complexities of modern dating. Gosling’s character undergoes a transformation from a womanizer to a man in love, and he brings both swagger and sincerity to the role. Crazy, Stupid, Love. is a feel-good movie with heart, and Gosling’s performance adds just the right amount of charm and humor to the mix.
8. First Man (2018)
In First Man, Gosling takes on the role of Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the moon. Directed by Damien Chazelle, the film is a biographical drama that focuses on the personal and professional struggles Armstrong faced on his journey to that historic moment. Unlike many space-themed films, First Man is more subdued and introspective, focusing on the emotional toll of Armstrong’s quest.
Gosling’s portrayal of Armstrong is quiet and measured, capturing the astronaut’s stoic determination and the weight of his responsibilities. The film delves into the sacrifices Armstrong and his family made, and Gosling’s performance is a poignant reminder of the human side of such monumental achievements. First Man is a powerful, contemplative film that showcases Gosling’s ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety and grace.
9. Lars and the Real Girl (2007)
One of Gosling’s most unique performances comes in Lars and the Real Girl, a quirky, heartwarming film about a socially awkward man who forms an unconventional relationship with a life-sized doll. The premise may sound bizarre, but Gosling’s sensitive and nuanced portrayal of Lars transforms the film into a touching exploration of loneliness, acceptance, and the human need for connection.
Gosling’s performance is filled with empathy and sincerity, turning what could have been a comedic farce into a deeply emotional character study. The film’s gentle humor and warmth, combined with Gosling’s tender portrayal of a man struggling to connect with the world around him, make Lars and the Real Girl a truly special film. It’s a testament to Gosling’s range as an actor and his ability to bring humanity to even the most unusual roles.
10. Half Nelson (2006)
Half Nelson is one of Gosling’s most critically acclaimed films, and it’s easy to see why. In this intense, character-driven drama, Gosling plays Dan Dunne, a middle school teacher grappling with addiction. The film is a stark, unflinching look at the complexities of idealism, failure, and redemption, and Gosling’s performance is raw and real.
Gosling’s portrayal of Dan is a delicate balancing act; he’s a man who is both inspiring to his students and deeply flawed in his personal life. The film doesn’t shy away from the darkness of Dan’s struggles, and Gosling dives deep into the role, delivering a performance that is both heartbreaking and hopeful. Half Nelson earned Gosling his first Oscar nomination for Best Actor, and it remains one of the most powerful performances of his career.
Conclusion
Ryan Gosling’s filmography is a masterclass in versatility, showcasing an actor who is unafraid to take risks and explore a wide range of characters. From the romantic idealism of The Notebook to the gritty realism of Half Nelson, Gosling has proven time and again that he is one of the most talented actors of his generation. As the Oscars approach, there’s no better time to dive into these ten films and witness the depth and range of Gosling’s performances. Whether you’re revisiting these classics or discovering them for the first time, you’ll find yourself captivated by the magic that Ryan Gosling brings to the screen.
