Ryan Reynolds’ Career: From ‘Ordinary Magic’ to ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’

Ryan Reynolds has built an impressive career that spans multiple decades and genres. He started with smaller television roles and independent films, slowly building a reputation for his charm and comedic timing. Over the years, he navigated through romantic comedies, dramatic parts, and action movies, showing his versatility as an actor. His journey wasn’t always a straight line to the top, as he experienced both critical successes and commercial disappointments along the way.

His persistence ultimately led to a career-defining role that perfectly merged his strengths in action and comedy. This success transformed him into a global superstar and a powerful Hollywood producer. Reynolds is now known for his sharp wit, charismatic on-screen presence, and savvy business sense, making him one of the most recognizable and beloved actors in the industry. His evolution from a young actor in lesser-known projects to the face of a major franchise is a testament to his talent and hard work.

‘Ordinary Magic’ (1993)

This Canadian family drama marked Ryan Reynolds’ feature film debut. The story follows a teenage boy named Ganesh, raised in India by his activist father, who moves to a small town in Ontario to live with his aunt after his father’s death. Reynolds stars as the protagonist, who prefers to be called Jeffrey, and must adjust to a completely new culture while staying true to his pacifist principles.

The film explores themes of cultural difference and non-violent protest as Jeffrey uses the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi to deal with local bullies and community issues. It provided an early showcase of his potential as a leading actor in a role that was more dramatic than the comedic parts he would later become famous for.

‘The Alarmist’ (1997)

In this dark comedy, a naive young man gets a job with a high-tech home security company only to discover that his charismatic boss is using the business as a front for staging burglaries. The film examines the absurdity and paranoia of suburban life through its quirky characters and criminal plot. Reynolds plays the supporting role of Howard Ancona, a friend of the main character.

The movie is an adaptation of the play ‘Life During Wartime’ by Keith Reddin. It features a cast of established actors and offers a satirical look at the security industry. Reynolds’ part in the film was one of several smaller roles he took in the late 1990s as he was building his career in Hollywood.

‘National Lampoon’s Van Wilder’ (2002)

This comedy film focuses on a charismatic and popular student who has spent seven years in college without graduating. He makes a living by throwing legendary parties and helping other students, but his comfortable lifestyle is threatened when his father cuts off his tuition payments. Reynolds stars as the title character, Van Wilder, whose main goal is to find a way to stay in school and continue his carefree existence.

The movie became a cult classic and helped establish Reynolds as a leading man with significant comedic talent. It is loosely based on the real-life experiences of a man who attended Florida State University for over a decade. The film’s success led to two sequels, although Reynolds did not appear in them, solidifying its place in the college comedy genre of the early 2000s.

‘Blade: Trinity’ (2004)

This superhero horror film is the third installment in the ‘Blade’ film series. The story sees the titular vampire hunter joining forces with a group of human hunters called the Nightstalkers to confront the original vampire, Dracula. Reynolds plays Hannibal King, a former vampire and a key member of the Nightstalkers known for his sarcastic wit and impressive combat skills.

The role was a significant step for Reynolds into the world of mainstream action movies. His performance was widely praised for bringing much-needed comic relief to the dark and serious tone of the franchise. Many viewers saw his portrayal of the fast-talking, wisecracking hero as a precursor to his later iconic superhero role.

‘The Amityville Horror’ (2005)

This supernatural horror film is a remake of the 1979 classic and is based on the story of a family who experiences paranormal events after moving into a house where a mass murder occurred. Reynolds stars as George Lutz, the new husband and stepfather who becomes increasingly possessed by a malevolent spirit residing in the home.

To prepare for the demanding role, Reynolds physically transformed himself, gaining muscle and growing a thick beard to match the appearance of the real-life George Lutz. His intense performance captured the character’s terrifying descent into madness, showcasing his ability to lead a major studio horror film.

‘Just Friends’ (2005)

In this romantic comedy, a man who was overweight and ridiculed in high school returns to his New Jersey hometown a decade later as a handsome and successful music executive. He attempts to finally win the heart of his high school best friend and longtime crush, but his past and his arrogant new personality complicate his efforts. Reynolds stars as the main character, Chris Brander.

The film required Reynolds to wear a fat suit and prosthetics for the flashback scenes, which added a significant physical comedy element to his performance. The movie has since become a holiday-season favorite for its blend of slapstick humor, heartwarming romance, and a nostalgic early 2000s setting.

‘Smokin’ Aces’ (2006)

This action-packed crime film features a large ensemble cast and multiple intersecting storylines. The plot revolves around a Las Vegas magician and wannabe mobster who agrees to testify against the mafia, prompting a million-dollar bounty to be placed on his head. This attracts a host of eccentric assassins, bounty hunters, and FBI agents who all converge on his Lake Tahoe hotel hideout.

Ryan Reynolds portrays Richard Messner, an FBI agent assigned to protect the key witness from the impending onslaught. The film is known for its stylish visuals, dark humor, and chaotic, high-energy action sequences. It blends elements of a gangster movie with a frenetic, over-the-top tone, resulting in a unique and memorable cinematic experience.

‘Definitely, Maybe’ (2008)

This romantic comedy-drama is framed as a mystery, where a political consultant on the verge of divorce tells his young daughter the story of his past relationships with three different women. He changes their names, and his daughter must guess which one of the women is her mother. Reynolds stars as Will Hayes, the father recounting his romantic history.

The story moves back and forth between the present day and flashbacks to the 1990s, chronicling his life as an ambitious young man working on a presidential campaign in New York City. The film is a charming and intelligent take on the romantic comedy genre, appreciated for its clever structure and emotionally resonant narrative about love and life’s choices.

‘The Proposal’ (2009)

In this romantic comedy, a high-powered Canadian book editor-in-chief faces deportation from the United States after her visa application is denied. In a desperate move, she forces her long-suffering American assistant, played by Ryan Reynolds, to marry her so she can stay in the country. He agrees to the sham engagement but with several conditions of his own.

The plot thickens when the mismatched pair travels to his family’s home in Alaska to celebrate his grandmother’s 90th birthday. The film follows their journey as they try to convince his family and a suspicious immigration agent that their relationship is real, leading to hilarious and heartwarming situations. The chemistry between the two leads was widely praised and contributed significantly to the film’s box office success.

‘Buried’ (2010)

This intense psychological thriller takes place almost entirely within a single confined space. Ryan Reynolds plays Paul Conroy, an American truck driver working in Iraq who wakes up to find he has been buried alive in a wooden coffin. With only a cell phone and a lighter, he must race against time to figure out who has trapped him and how to escape before his oxygen runs out.

The film is a masterclass in suspense, using its minimalist setting to create a profoundly claustrophobic and terrifying experience. Reynolds delivers a powerful solo performance, conveying a wide range of emotions from panic and despair to hope and determination. The movie was critically acclaimed for its unique concept and gripping execution.

‘Green Lantern’ (2011)

This film brought the iconic DC Comics superhero to the big screen. The story follows Hal Jordan, a gifted but reckless test pilot who is chosen by a mysterious alien ring to become the first human member of the Green Lantern Corps, an intergalactic peacekeeping force. Reynolds takes on the lead role, tasked with defending Earth from a powerful new enemy.

The production involved extensive computer-generated imagery to create the alien worlds and the energy constructs projected by the power rings. Despite high expectations and a massive budget, the film was met with a mixed reception from both critics and audiences, becoming a notable chapter in Reynolds’ career journey through the superhero genre.

‘The Change-Up’ (2011)

This R-rated body-swap comedy centers on two lifelong friends who are living completely different lives. One is a married lawyer and father of three, while the other is a carefree, single actor. After a night of drinking, they wish they had each other’s lives and magically wake up in the wrong bodies. Reynolds plays Mitch Planko, the irresponsible actor who suddenly finds himself dealing with diapers and corporate law.

The film uses its adult-oriented humor to explore themes of friendship, responsibility, and the classic idea that the grass is always greener on the other side. It paired Reynolds with another leading comedic actor, Jason Bateman, and relied heavily on their chemistry as they navigated each other’s chaotic lives.

‘Safe House’ (2012)

This action thriller stars Ryan Reynolds as Matt Weston, a low-level CIA agent stationed at a safe house in Cape Town, South Africa. His mundane assignment takes a dramatic turn when the agency’s most wanted rogue agent is captured and brought to his facility for interrogation. The safe house is soon attacked by mercenaries, forcing the inexperienced agent to go on the run with the dangerous fugitive.

The film is a fast-paced cat-and-mouse game as the two men try to evade their pursuers while uncovering a conspiracy within the CIA. It features intense action sequences, including car chases and fight scenes, set against the backdrop of an international espionage plot. The dynamic between the rookie agent and the seasoned traitor drives the narrative forward with suspense and intrigue.

‘The Croods’ (2013)

This animated adventure is set in a fictional prehistoric era and follows a family of cavemen who must leave their cave after it is destroyed. Forced to venture into an unknown world, they encounter new creatures and breathtaking landscapes with the help of an inventive and forward-thinking young man. Reynolds voices Guy, the clever outsider who introduces the family to new ideas like fire and shoes.

The film is a story about curiosity, change, and the importance of family. It was praised for its stunning animation, humor, and endearing characters. The movie was a global box office success and received an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature Film, leading to a franchise that includes a sequel and a television series.

‘Woman in Gold’ (2015)

This biographical drama tells the true story of Maria Altmann, an elderly Jewish refugee who, sixty years after fleeing Vienna during World War II, starts a legal battle to reclaim Gustav Klimt’s iconic painting of her aunt. She enlists the help of a young and inexperienced but determined lawyer to sue the Austrian government for the artwork that was stolen from her family by the Nazis.

Ryan Reynolds plays E. Randol Schoenberg, the lawyer who takes on the seemingly impossible case. The film shifts between their contemporary legal fight and flashbacks to the past, showing the young Maria’s life in Vienna and her family’s persecution. It is a powerful story about justice, memory, and the fight to reclaim one’s heritage.

‘Deadpool’ (2016)

This superhero film tells the origin story of a former Special Forces operative turned mercenary who undergoes a rogue experiment that leaves him with accelerated healing powers. Adopting a new alter ego, he hunts down the man who nearly destroyed his life, all while cracking jokes and breaking the fourth wall to address the audience directly. Ryan Reynolds stars as the titular “Merc with a Mouth.”

The movie was a passion project for Reynolds, who championed it for years to ensure it remained faithful to the comic book’s R-rated tone and meta-humor. Its unconventional marketing and unique style resonated with audiences, making it a critical and commercial blockbuster. The film successfully revitalized the superhero genre with its bold and comedic approach.

‘Life’ (2017)

This science fiction horror film follows a six-member crew aboard the International Space Station who discover the first evidence of extraterrestrial life on Mars. The team of scientists successfully revives a dormant single-celled organism, but the rapidly evolving creature soon proves to be more intelligent and hostile than they ever imagined. Reynolds plays Rory Adams, the mission’s flight engineer.

The film creates a tense and claustrophobic atmosphere as the crew fights for survival against the alien entity within the confined space of the station. It builds suspense through its clever pacing and moments of intense action. The story has been noted for its chilling and ambiguous ending, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.

‘The Hitman’s Bodyguard’ (2017)

In this action-comedy, a world-class protection agent is hired to guard his mortal enemy, one of the world’s most notorious hitmen. The two have been on opposite ends of a bullet for years and must now work together to get to a trial at the International Criminal Court in one piece. Reynolds stars as Michael Bryce, the meticulous and down-on-his-luck bodyguard.

The film is a buddy comedy that thrives on the constant bickering and explosive dynamic between its two leads. It features a mix of high-stakes action sequences, car chases, and verbal sparring matches. The plot takes them on a perilous journey across Europe as they are hunted by assassins sent by a ruthless dictator.

‘Deadpool 2’ (2018)

In this highly anticipated sequel, the wisecracking mercenary is back with more action and fourth-wall-breaking humor. After a personal tragedy, he finds a new purpose in protecting a young mutant with powerful abilities from a time-traveling cybernetic soldier named Cable. To accomplish his mission, he forms a team of fellow mutants he calls X-Force.

The film continues the franchise’s signature blend of brutal action, irreverent comedy, and emotional undertones. Reynolds not only reprises his starring role but also served as a writer and producer, further shaping the character’s on-screen identity. The movie was a massive commercial success, praised for its clever script and for expanding the world introduced in the first film.

‘6 Underground’ (2019)

This action film follows a tech billionaire who fakes his own death to form an anonymous vigilante team. The group’s mission is to take down dangerous criminals and dictators that the world’s governments are unwilling to pursue. Reynolds stars as “One,” the enigmatic leader and benefactor of this ghost squad.

Directed by Michael Bay, the movie is characterized by its signature style of large-scale explosions, frantic car chases, and non-stop action. It was released directly to a streaming service as a high-budget original production. The story is a fast-paced, globe-trotting spectacle that prioritizes thrilling stunts and visual flair.

‘Free Guy’ (2021)

This science fiction action-comedy is set inside a massive open-world video game called Free City. Reynolds stars as Guy, a non-player character who works as a bank teller and is blissfully unaware that his life is part of a game. His world is turned upside down when he meets a real-life player and begins to break from his programming, becoming a hero in his own right.

Guy’s newfound sentience causes him to become a global sensation, but it also threatens the game’s future when its creator decides to shut it down. The film is a fun and visually stunning adventure that explores themes of free will, individuality, and what it means to be alive. It was widely praised for its originality, humor, and heartfelt story.

‘Red Notice’ (2021)

This action-comedy follows a top FBI profiler who is forced to team up with the world’s second-most wanted art thief to catch an even more elusive criminal. Reynolds stars as Nolan Booth, the wisecracking and highly skilled art thief who forms an uneasy alliance with his pursuer. Their mission takes them on a globe-trotting adventure filled with heists, double-crosses, and elaborate cons.

The film was a major streaming-service release with a high production budget, bringing together three of Hollywood’s biggest stars. It became one of the platform’s most-watched original movies upon its debut. The movie is known for its fast-paced action sequences, humorous banter between the leads, and a lighthearted, adventurous tone.

‘The Adam Project’ (2022)

This science fiction adventure follows a time-traveling fighter pilot from the future who accidentally crash-lands in the present day. There, he must team up with his 12-year-old self to save the future. Reynolds stars as the adult Adam Reed, who is on a secret mission to find his lost love while navigating the complexities of meeting his younger, grieving self.

The film combines thrilling action with a heartfelt emotional core, exploring themes of family, loss, and reconciliation. It reunites Reynolds with director Shawn Levy, with whom he previously collaborated on another successful project. The movie was praised for its blend of humor, spectacle, and genuine sentiment, making it a popular hit on its streaming platform.

‘Spirited’ (2022)

This musical comedy offers a modern retelling of Charles Dickens’s classic story ‘A Christmas Carol’. The film follows the Ghost of Christmas Present, who, along with his colleagues Jacob Marley and the Ghosts of Christmas Past and Future, selects one dark soul to reform each year. Reynolds plays Clint Briggs, a cynical and manipulative media consultant deemed “unredeemable” by the spirits.

Instead of being reformed, Clint turns the tables on the Ghost of Christmas Present, forcing him to re-examine his own past, present, and future. The movie features original songs written by acclaimed composers Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, blending humor with heartfelt holiday themes. It was released on a streaming service and offered a fresh, comedic take on a timeless tale.

‘IF’ (2024)

This fantasy comedy centers on a young girl who discovers she can see everyone’s imaginary friends, known as IFs. After this newfound ability emerges, she embarks on a magical adventure to reconnect forgotten IFs with their kids. Reynolds plays Cal, the girl’s neighbor who also has the ability to see the imaginary creatures and acts as her guide in this whimsical world.

The film is a heartfelt story about the power of imagination and the importance of holding onto childhood wonder. Reynolds also served as a producer on the project, which was directed by John Krasinski. The movie features a star-studded voice cast for the various IFs, creating a charming and visually inventive experience for audiences of all ages.

‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ (2024)

This highly anticipated superhero film marks the official integration of the ‘Deadpool’ character into the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The story follows Wade Wilson as he is pulled from his quiet life by the Time Variance Authority, a bureaucratic organization that monitors the timeline. He is then sent on a mission that pairs him with a reluctant variant of the mutant Wolverine.

The movie brings together two of the most popular characters from Marvel comics, promising the franchise’s signature blend of R-rated humor, meta-commentary, and intense action. As both the star and a key producer, Reynolds plays a crucial role in shaping the film’s tone and its important place within the larger superhero cinematic landscape.

Let me know which Ryan Reynolds movie is your all-time favorite in the comments below.