Oscar Winner Oliver Stone Slams Ryan Gosling’s Film Choices
Oliver Stone sparked controversy by criticizing Ryan Gosling for starring in movies like Barbie, arguing that Gosling should focus on more serious roles. Stone later issued an apology for his comments.
Ryan Gosling has it all—charm, comedic timing, undeniable talent, and that signature Canadian cool. For many, he’s the total package. But not everyone is on board with his career moves. Oliver Stone, the legendary director known for his hard-hitting films and polarizing opinions, recently made headlines for taking aim at Gosling’s filmography.
Stone, a three-time Academy Award winner, has built his reputation on tackling weighty topics like war, politics, and America’s place in the world. He’s never been shy about sharing his views, and his latest comments were no exception. In a candid interview, Stone didn’t hold back when the subject of Barbie came up. He dismissed the film and its cast, calling the project “ridiculous.”
Stone’s Take on Hollywood and Gosling’s Career
Stone’s criticism went beyond just one movie. He argued that Hollywood has become obsessed with fantasy, losing touch with reality.
“Ryan Gosling is wasting his time if he’s doing that shit for money,”
Stone said.
“He should be doing more serious films. He shouldn’t be a part of this infantilisation of Hollywood. Now it’s all fantasy, fantasy, fantasy, including all the war pictures: fantasy, fantasy. Even the Fast and Furious movies, which I used to enjoy, have become like Marvel movies. I mean, how many crashes can you see?”
Stone’s remarks reflect a broader debate about what makes a film “serious.” Gosling’s career has seen him move from romantic comedies and so-called “chick flicks” to more intense roles in films like Drive. After Barbie, he’s managed to blend drama and comedy, as seen in The Fall Guy, and his schedule is packed with new projects. This shift has sparked conversations about the value of different genres and the respect they receive.
Changing Perceptions and Industry Bias
The discussion around Gosling’s choices highlights a long-standing bias in film criticism. Movies that tackle certain themes or embrace humor often aren’t taken as seriously as more traditional, self-important fare. This attitude can reveal deeper issues, including sexism. When Gosling moved away from films aimed at women, critics began to view him as a more serious actor. But when he returned to that audience with Barbie, he faced ridicule again.
Stone’s own filmography complicates his argument. He’s directed movies about rock bands, football, and even wrote the script for Evita. It’s hard to say all of those fit his definition of “serious.” The fact that he later apologized for his comments about Gosling and Barbie suggests he may not fully stand by his own harsh words.