This Is the Best Ryan Reynolds Movie According to Rotten Tomatoes

As someone who has spent countless hours engrossed in the world of cinema, I can confidently say that Ryan Reynolds’ performance in Mississippi Grind stands out as one of his finest. This is not just because it’s his highest-rated movie on Rotten Tomatoes, but because it showcases a depth and vulnerability that are often overshadowed by his comedic roles and the Merc with a Mouth.

Generally speaking, Ryan Reynolds is primarily recognized for his roles in comedies and superhero movies, as well as the blend of both in the Deadpool series. However, his highest-rated film according to Rotten Tomatoes is actually a dramatic production.

As a film enthusiast, I’d say my second-best rated movie leans more towards comedy but essentially plays out as a drama. The third one is a gripping thriller. You need to scroll down to the fourth spot to find the wise-cracking antihero, Deadpool. Now, let me tell you about my top pick – it’s “Mississippi Grind,” where I teamed up with Ben Mendelsohn, who also starred in “Captain Marvel.” Interestingly enough, this film was directed by Ryan Fleck and Anna Boden, the same duo responsible for steering “Captain Marvel” through its cinematic journey.

What Is Mississippi Grind About & Why Do Critics Consider It Reynolds’ Best?

The film, titled “Mississippi Grind,” narrates the story of Gerry, a compulsive gambler portrayed by Mendelsohn, who encounters Curtis, a younger man with similar gambling issues, played by Reynolds. After a disastrous night filled with excessive drinking and poor fortune, Gerry finds himself in financial trouble and is being pressured to repay a loan shark. As Curtis prepares to depart from town, Gerry devises a strategy: They embark on a journey to Mississippi, stopping at various gambling venues en route, hoping to eventually reach a well-known high-stakes poker game in New Orleans.

They have a connection to that game since Curtis is acquainted with the host, but they’re still lacking $25,000 for the entry fee. Gerry thinks Curtis brings him luck, while Curtis sees Gerry as a casual gambler, not an addict. However, in due time, both prove to be mistaken about each other.

Ultimately, it’s clear that one of the characters has experienced personal growth, while the other hasn’t seen as much change. But they did manage to forge a friendship in the process. The movie is thought-provoking and boasts outstanding performances by its talented leads who share an undeniable on-screen camaraderie.

In contrast to popular gambling films like “21” and “Maverick,” “Mississippi Grind” stands out due to its focus on character development, making it akin to a psychological portrait. It shares this quality with movies such as “Molly’s Game,” “The Hustler,” and “The Gambler” featuring James Caan. However, what truly sets “Mississippi Grind” apart is its strong connection to the seminal film “Rounders.” Similar to the latter, “Mississippi Grind” explores the formation and breaking of bonds as much as it delves into themes of addiction.

What Is Reynolds’ Top 10?

In the realm of cinema, it was Mississippi Grind that climbed its way to the summit, earning the gold medal. The silver and bronze were bestowed upon fellow indie films, Adventureland and Buried, respectively. And rightly so, as these movies stand shoulder to shoulder with Mississippi Grind in terms of quality, showcasing Ryan Reynolds’ versatile acting skills that are all too often overlooked.

In summary, Deadpool claims fourth place with a strong 85%, and Deadpool 2 isn’t far off at 84%. The unexpected success Free Guy took sixth position. Interestingly, another Deadpool film, Deadpool & Wolverine, reclaims seventh spot. The Croods: A New Age, where Reynolds also appeared in the original (at #11), comes in eighth. Ninth place goes to the often overlooked The Voices, which showcases Reynolds’ finest performance yet. Lastly, the underestimated Definitely, Maybe rounds out the top ten.

A fresh movie, albeit one that didn’t make it to the Top 10, is Apple TV+’s holiday musical “Spirited“, which offers a contemporary twist on the classic tale “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens. Unlike many adaptations, it successfully reworks the storyline. Additionally, there’s “Detective Pikachu“, surprisingly without a sequel yet, the sci-fi film “Life“, which has developed a small but dedicated fanbase similar to “Alien“, and “The Adam Project“, directed by Shawn Levy, who is also known for “Free Guy“, “Deadpool“, and “Wolverine“.

What Are Reynolds’ Lowest-Rated Movies?

26 out of 44 movies on the list have a “Rotten” rating, with the lowest being “R.I.P.D.”, and it’s understandable why. Just slightly higher in rank is “National Lampoon’s Van Wilder”, which significantly boosted Reynolds’ career.

Additionally, you’ll find a couple of other popular picks joining Van Wilder, such as Waiting…, Criminal, Smokin’ Aces, Just Friends, and IF. Furthermore, there are some films that received mixed reviews but still managed to find commercial success. These include the 2005 remake of The Amityville Horror, The Hitman’s Bodyguard, its sequel The Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard, X-Men Origins: Wolverine, The Proposal, and Safe House.

When it comes to box office disappointments, there are films like “Green Lantern” from 2011 and the less-than-amusing comedy “The Change-Up.” However, Ryan Reynolds is a standout in almost every movie he’s in. Despite not all of his movies being blockbusters, he consistently shines on screen. Moreover, while he has a knack for humor, he’s demonstrated numerous times that he’s capable of more depth and range when given the chance.

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2024-12-25 23:09