Ryan Reynolds’ Most Unforgettable Roles: His Top 10 Performances
Ryan Reynolds has taken on a wide range of roles, from hilarious to heartfelt, always bringing a unique spark to the screen. Discover which of his performances stand out as his most memorable and see how he’s become one of Hollywood’s most beloved stars.
Few actors have shown the kind of versatility and charisma that Ryan Reynolds brings to every project. Whether he’s making us laugh, tugging at our heartstrings, or keeping us on the edge of our seats, Reynolds always finds a way to make his characters feel real and relatable. His willingness to take risks and dive into unexpected roles has made him a standout in the industry.
Romantic Comedies and Animated Hits
Reynolds’ knack for romantic comedies shines in films like The Proposal, where he plays Andrew Paxton, a put-upon assistant who finds himself in a fake engagement with his demanding boss. The chemistry between him and Sandra Bullock is effortless, and their comedic timing makes every scene pop. Even in a predictable storyline, Reynolds’ performance brings a fresh, genuine energy that keeps audiences invested.
In the animated adventure The Croods, Reynolds voices Guy, an inventive outsider who shakes up a prehistoric family’s world. His lively, optimistic delivery stands out among a cast of big personalities, adding a layer of warmth and humor that helps the film’s quirky tone land just right.
Dark Comedy and Indie Standouts
Reynolds isn’t afraid to get weird, as seen in The Voices. Here, he plays Jerry, a lonely man whose conversations with his pets—both voiced by Reynolds—are as unsettling as they are funny. He brings a vulnerability to Jerry that makes the character more than just a punchline, balancing the film’s offbeat humor with real emotional depth.
In The Nines, Reynolds takes on multiple roles across three interconnected stories, each one slightly different but equally compelling. The film’s surreal structure lets him flex his range, moving from TV star to writer to suburban dad, all while keeping the audience guessing. It’s a testament to his ability to handle complex, layered material.
Action, Drama, and Career-Defining Moments
Reynolds’ portrayal of Wade Wilson in Deadpool is nothing short of iconic. He brings a wild, unfiltered energy to the role, blending sharp humor with genuine emotion. The character’s self-awareness and irreverence fit Reynolds’ style perfectly, making it hard to imagine anyone else in the part.
In Buried, Reynolds delivers a gripping performance as a man trapped underground with only a phone and a lighter. The entire film rests on his shoulders, and he navigates the escalating panic and desperation with raw intensity. It’s a showcase of his dramatic chops, proving he can carry a film even in the most claustrophobic of settings.
Subtle Turns and Underrated Gems
Reynolds shows a softer side in Definitely, Maybe, playing a father recounting his romantic past to his daughter. He dials back the sarcasm, letting the story’s emotional beats take center stage. The result is a heartfelt, nuanced performance that stands out among his romantic comedies.
In Mississippi Grind, Reynolds plays Curtis, a charming gambler whose easygoing exterior hides deeper wounds. His chemistry with Ben Mendelsohn brings a natural, lived-in feel to the film, and their scenes together are filled with unspoken tension and quiet understanding. It’s a role that highlights Reynolds’ ability to bring subtlety and depth to even the most understated characters.