The Fall Guy
Amazing movie! This might be a new favorite.
Writing: I feel like there was super strong subtext in all the dialogue. I was genuinely surprised by who did what, and the characters were very compelling and accomplished their purpose. They played on tropes and clichés and weren’t afraid to be self aware. It was different than any rom com or action movie I’ve seen. The intensity ramped up at the right pace and flowed naturally. The action scenes were motivated, had purpose, were different, and all around funny. Like using hydroflask as a weapon or the dog Jean Claude having French attacks like a pokemon. I laughed out loud a lot during this.
Acting: Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt both knew what their characters would do and react in the situations they were put in. Certain things I’d be like, “yup, checks out for their character.” Like her stabbing Colt when he snuck up on her. Genuinely felt nervous for them and empathized for them so that’s how I know they did a good job. Gale had perfect producer vibes and Tommy Ryder lived up to his persona people made him out to be.
Cinematography: A very nice and simple color palette. And just using the set and props to frame things well worked great. The cinematography was very much focused on the storytelling like when there’s a sudden slow motion to emphasize the cliche and then immediately breaking it. Or the framing at the end with the landing pad covering up their kiss. The fight scene in the club with the neon was so cool, as well as the sparks from the metal on the ground as a guy was trying to kill Colt.
Editing: loved the consciousness of the split screen and there was a perfect balance of intercutting to different places during action scenes.
Design: the weapons for the fight scenes were wonderful and emphasized the use of props that weren’t real. Tommy’s apartment was a fitting place for a fight scene and the sets had a very real feel while also feeling a bit bigger than life as if this was its own world. Costumes were spot on.
Sound: Amazing soundtrack, also emphasized the storytelling like Taylor Swift’s All Too Well which was perfect because it could be sentimental or just straight up hilarious for people who get the pop culture I was dying. Effects matched and were believable. Dialogue was clear. I’m sure there was more I didn’t catch.
Theme: Appreciate the people whose work is not always seen or recognized. People deserve second chances. Worth is based on more than accomplishments.
Tension: Will Colt and Jody get back together? Will Colt die? Will Colt find Tommy? Will they prove Colt innocent?