Ryan Gosling is on fire. Literally. Fresh off his transformative journey to Barbie Land, the 42-year-old actor is diving headfirst into the action-packed realm of The Fall Guy, a high-octane action-comedy set to hit theaters on March 1, 2024. Directed by David Leitch, known for his adrenaline-pumping blockbusters like John Wick, Atomic Blonde, and Bullet Train, the film promises a whirlwind ride through Hollywood’s stunt world. Universal Pictures recently dropped the first trailer, offering a tantalizing glimpse into Gosling’s role as Colt Seavers, a stunt performer who finds himself in the midst of a chaotic adventure. In this article, we delve into the making of this thrilling film, exploring how Gosling and the team pulled off some jaw-dropping stunts while paying homage to the art of stunt performing.

A New Take on a Classic Concept

The Fall Guy is more than just a nod to the ’80s TV series of the same name. The original show, which starred Lee Majors as Colt Seavers, a Hollywood stuntman who moonlights as a bounty hunter, captivated audiences with its blend of action and humor. The revival, however, is not a direct remake but rather a contemporary reimagining that adds a fresh layer of excitement. McCormick and Leitch, who have a long-standing affection for the original series, see this film as their “love letter” to the stunt community.

Kelly McCormick, who co-produces the film with Leitch, explains, “We’ve always admired the original show for its authentic portrayal of stunt work. It was groundbreaking in its time and inspired countless people to pursue careers in stunts. Our film is a modern twist on that legacy, blending homage with new, innovative elements that reflect today’s cinematic landscape.”

The High-Flying Role of Ryan Gosling

In The Fall Guy, Gosling plays Colt, a seasoned stuntman with a knack for high-risk feats. The film’s plot centers around Colt’s involvement in an over-the-top sci-fi blockbuster directed by his ex-girlfriend, Jody, played by Emily Blunt. When the film’s lead actor, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, mysteriously disappears, Colt must use his stunt skills to track him down and ensure Jody’s movie isn’t derailed.

Gosling’s portrayal of Colt is both physically demanding and emotionally nuanced. The actor’s commitment to the role involved extensive training and preparation to ensure that the stunts appeared both thrilling and authentic. From being set ablaze to participating in high-speed car chases, Gosling’s performance required him to push his limits.

Leitch, who has a background as a stunt performer himself, was meticulous in ensuring that Gosling’s stunts were executed with precision. “Ryan is incredibly dedicated,” says Leitch. “He trained for months leading up to filming, working with some of the best stunt coordinators in the business. His willingness to perform many of his own stunts speaks volumes about his commitment to the role and to delivering a genuine portrayal of a stuntman’s life.”

Behind the Scenes: Crafting the Stunts

The stunts in The Fall Guy are not only a central element of the film but also a testament to the filmmakers’ dedication to practical effects. Leitch and McCormick’s love for real stunts is evident in every scene. Rather than relying heavily on CGI, the film showcases impressive practical effects, from explosive car chases to daring aerial sequences.

One of the film’s standout moments is a sequence where Gosling’s character performs a gravity-defying leap from a building. The stunt involved a complex combination of wire work, precise timing, and careful choreography. Leitch describes the process: “We spent weeks designing this stunt to ensure it was both safe and visually spectacular. We had a team of experts working on the rigging, and Ryan’s training allowed him to execute the jump with remarkable skill.”

The film’s production team also went to great lengths to create realistic explosions and fire effects. Instead of relying on digital effects, they used controlled pyrotechnics to create scenes where characters are engulfed in flames or thrown through walls. McCormick highlights the importance of these practical effects: “There’s something special about seeing real stunts on screen. It adds a level of authenticity that digital effects often can’t match. Our goal was to make every action sequence feel as genuine as possible.”

The Chemistry of Gosling and Blunt

A key aspect of The Fall Guy is the dynamic between Gosling and Blunt. Their on-screen chemistry is both electric and endearing, contributing significantly to the film’s appeal. Blunt’s character, Jody, is not only Colt’s ex-girlfriend but also a driven director with a vision for her film. The tension between their past relationship and their current professional collaboration adds depth to the story.

Blunt’s performance as Jody is both compelling and multifaceted. She brings a blend of intensity and vulnerability to the role, making her a formidable counterpart to Gosling’s Colt. The two actors worked closely together to develop their characters’ interactions, enhancing the emotional stakes of the film.

Gosling and Blunt’s chemistry was further strengthened by their shared commitment to the film’s demanding stunts. Both actors participated in extensive rehearsals and training sessions to ensure that their performances were as convincing as their stunt work. “Emily and Ryan’s chemistry is a huge part of what makes this film work,” says Leitch. “Their interactions are authentic and engaging, which elevates the action sequences and makes the story more relatable.”

The Legacy of Stunt Performers

The Fall Guy not only entertains but also sheds light on the often-overlooked world of stunt performers. By focusing on the life of a stuntman, the film honors the unsung heroes behind some of Hollywood’s most memorable action sequences. Stunt performers are frequently the unsung heroes of the film industry, and Leitch and McCormick are dedicated to celebrating their contributions.

McCormick reflects on this aspect of the film: “We wanted to make a movie that not only showcases thrilling stunts but also pays tribute to the people who make them happen. Stunt performers are incredibly skilled and often take on dangerous roles without receiving the recognition they deserve. By centering our story around a stuntman, we hope to highlight their important role in filmmaking.”

The film’s depiction of the stunt community is both respectful and accurate. Leitch and McCormick worked closely with industry professionals to ensure that the portrayal of stunt work was both authentic and respectful. The attention to detail extends beyond the stunts themselves, encompassing the daily life and challenges faced by stunt performers.

Conclusion: A Thrilling Tribute

The Fall Guy promises to be a thrilling ride that combines humor, action, and heartfelt moments. With Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt leading a talented cast and David Leitch at the helm, the film is set to captivate audiences with its high-flying stunts and engaging storyline. As a modern reimagining of a classic TV series, it pays homage to the world of stunt performing while delivering a fresh and exhilarating experience.

The film’s commitment to practical effects and authentic stunts reflects a deep respect for the craft of stunt performing. Leitch and McCormick’s dedication to showcasing real stunts and honoring the legacy of the original series ensures that The Fall Guy will stand out as a memorable and entertaining addition to the action-comedy genre.

As fans eagerly await its release, The Fall Guy stands as a testament to the exciting possibilities of combining thrilling action with heartfelt storytelling. With its blend of explosive stunts and engaging performances, the film is sure to leave a lasting impression and set a new standard for action-comedies in the years to come.