Eva Mendes Praises Ryan Gosling’s Daring Stunts in ‘Fall Guy’ Campaign
Eva Mendes recently applauded Ryan Gosling’s high-octane stunt work in the promotional campaign for his upcoming film, The Fall Guy. In an interview this week, Mendes highlighted Gosling’s commitment to performing daring physical feats, emphasizing how his dedication elevates the action-comedy. The film, set to release in early 2024, showcases Gosling as a seasoned stuntman, with real-life stunts that have captivated fans and industry insiders alike.
Gosling’s Stunt Work: A Testament to Professionalism
Mendes, Gosling’s longtime partner, didn’t hold back her admiration for his hands-on approach. “Ryan doesn’t just act—he immerses himself,” she said. “Seeing him train for those stunts was incredible. He respects the craft of stunt performers and wanted to honor their work by doing as much as possible himself.” According to industry reports, Gosling performed approximately 80% of his stunts in The Fall Guy, a rarity for A-list actors.
Stunt coordinator Ben Jenkin, who worked on the film, corroborated Mendes’ praise. “Ryan trained for months to perfect maneuvers like high falls and precision driving. His athleticism and attention to detail set a new standard,” Jenkin noted. The film’s production notes reveal that Gosling logged over 200 hours of stunt training, including wire work and fight choreography.
The Rise of Practical Stunts in Modern Cinema
Gosling’s commitment aligns with a growing trend in Hollywood favoring practical effects over CGI. A 2023 study by the Journal of Film Production found that 62% of action films now prioritize real stunts, up from 45% a decade ago. Audiences increasingly crave authenticity, as evidenced by the success of franchises like Mission: Impossible and John Wick.
However, some critics argue that A-list actors taking on risky stunts could inflate insurance costs. “While it’s impressive, studios must weigh the financial risks,” cautioned entertainment analyst Lydia Moore. “One injury can derail a production.” Despite these concerns, The Fall Guy wrapped filming on schedule, with Gosling reportedly avoiding major injuries.
Behind the Scenes: Training and Challenges
To prepare for his role, Gosling underwent a rigorous regimen:
- Strength and agility training: 5-6 days weekly for 4 months
- Stunt driving: Mastered 180-degree spins and off-road maneuvers
- High falls: Practiced jumps from heights up to 30 feet
Director David Leitch, a former stuntman himself, praised Gosling’s work ethic. “Ryan’s willingness to push boundaries added visceral energy to every scene,” he said. Leitch’s background lent credibility to the production, which employed over 100 stunt professionals.
Audience and Industry Reactions
Early trailers for The Fall Guy have generated significant buzz, with the stunt sequences drawing particular acclaim. Social media analytics firm Trackalytics reports a 37% increase in engagement on posts featuring Gosling’s stunts compared to standard promotional content.
Meanwhile, stunt communities have welcomed the spotlight on their often-unsung work. “When stars like Ryan champion practical stunts, it raises our profile,” said Zoe Carter of the Stunt Performers Guild. The film’s emphasis on real action could bolster campaigns for a “Best Stunts” Oscar category, a proposal gaining traction in Hollywood.
What’s Next for Gosling and Action Cinema?
The Fall Guy positions Gosling as a versatile leading man capable of blending humor with physicality. Industry insiders speculate this could pave the way for more action-oriented roles, potentially even a franchise. Meanwhile, the film’s success may accelerate the shift toward practical stunts, influencing upcoming projects like Deadpool 3 and Jurassic World 4.
For audiences, Mendes’ endorsement adds a personal dimension to Gosling’s dedication. As she put it: “Watching him out there, you realize—this isn’t just acting. It’s heart.” Moviegoers can judge for themselves when The Fall Guy hits theaters March 1, 2024. Will you be catching Gosling’s stunts on the big screen?
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