As a film enthusiast and someone who’s deeply connected to my Australian roots, I can’t help but be moved by Peter Weir’s masterpiece, “Gallipoli.” Growing up Down Under, I’ve heard countless stories of brave men and women who answered the call to duty during World War I. And Gallipoli is a poignant reminder of the human cost of war.
Two popular actors, Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman, are frequently discussed in today’s movie scene. They have an impressive list of box office hits under their belts and seem to have explored various genres. In the realm of superheroes, they have made indelible marks: Reynolds as the wisecracking Deadpool and Jackman as the gritty Wolverine in the “X-Men” franchise. The highly anticipated film slated for release in 2024, titled “Deadpool & Wolverine,” will bring these two iconic characters together on screen for the first R-rated movie within the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
During a recent interview for their upcoming MCU film in 2024, Letterboxd reporters inquired about Reynolds and Jackman’s preferred movies. Without hesitation, they quickly shared their top picks from memory. Here are the favorite films of Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman, as stated at the red carpet event.
Reynolds’ 1st Pick: Gaslight (1944)
George Cukor’s 1944 psychological thriller, titled “Gaslight,” centers around Paula Alquist, a young opera student who is unexpectedly thrust into the role of an heiress when her renowned opera singer aunt is murdered. In order to grieve and come to terms with this loss, Paula travels to Italy. There, she meets and falls for the captivating Gregory Anton. With newfound love in tow, they return to London and move into Paula’s late aunt’s house. However, strange occurrences start unfolding around Paula within the familiar walls, leaving her feeling uneasy and uncertain of what is real.
Around Paula, strange occurrences begin to unfold: inexplicable noises, lost items, and intermittent lights. She grows suspicious that her partner might be orchestrating these incidents, with the intention of driving her crazy.
One of Ingrid Bergman’s Top Performances
The classic movie “Gaslight” from the early 1940s is known for its portrayal of the “hysterical woman” stereotype in Hollywood films, based on the play and film of the same name. This was the role that earned Ingrid Bergman her first Academy Award for Best Actress.
In the early 1940s, few films explored the perils of a seemingly normal household. But this chilling thriller defied convention by introducing the terrifying presence of an abusive partner. The term “gaslighting,” which now refers to manipulating someone’s emotions, originated from this classic film of the era.
You can rent Gaslight on Prime Video.
Reynolds’ 2nd Pick: Grosse Pointe Blank (1997)
In the movie “Grosse Pointe Blank,” I, an assassin for hire, get an unexpected invitation – my ten-year high school reunion. I initially see no reason to attend, but then a job opportunity arises near my hometown. I figure I can take care of business and relive old memories at the same time. So, I make my way back to where I grew up.
“A Huge Influence on Me”
Reynolds considers Grosse Pointe Blank a significant influence on him, an assessment we wholeheartedly share. This movie continues to captivate audiences as it did in 1997, thanks to its innovative approach to dark comedy, seamless blend of action and humor, and nearly flawless soundtrack selection.
Despite having a foreseeable conclusion, this movie from the ’90s is still a strong representation of its genre. Disney produced it as part of their daring initiatives in live-action films, which didn’t necessarily cater to all ages.
Reynolds’ 3rd Pick: Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)
In an unfortunate turn of events for Neal Page, a harried executive trying to get back to Chicago from New York City before Thanksgiving, every mode of transport – be it planes, trains or automobiles – seems to bring him face to face with Del Griffith, a relentless salesman. No matter where Neal goes or what means of transportation he chooses, Del manages to tag along, turning Neal’s journey into a living nightmare.
“A True Favorite of Mine”
By 1987, John Hughes was well-known for his work in teen comedies, but he surprised everyone by venturing into the realm of “adult comedy.” The result was “Planes, Trains, and Automobiles,” which was both praised by critics and a financial success for Paramount Pictures.
Reynolds considers it a top pick of his own, and likely many Americans share the same opinion: this movie has gained popularity to the point where watching it is almost a tradition during Thanksgiving. It’s undeniably the finest work by both John Candy and Steve Martin in their acting careers.
Reynolds’ 4th Pick: Rebecca (1940)
As a gamer, I’d put it this way: In Alfred Hitchcock’s thrilling tale “Rebecca,” I find myself immersed in the shoes of a young woman. She’s captivated by Maxim de Winter, a wealthy and enigmatic widower. We get married and step into his grand English mansion, Manderley, which was once home to his late wife, Rebecca. Her mysterious disappearance still looms large over us, casting an ominous shadow on our new life together.
After the new bride encounters Mrs. Danvers, the housekeeper at Manderley, she realizes that Rebecca continues to have a strong presence among the residents. Yet, it isn’t until Rebecca’s body is discovered that the truth about her will be revealed to the new Mrs. de Winter.
One of the Best Psychological Dramas of the 20th Century
Hitchcock’s psychological thriller based on Daphne du Maurier’s novel was a significant achievement in his Hollywood career. This groundbreaking film, which showcases Hitchcock’s mastery of suspense and drama, is an adaptation of the acclaimed author’s work. It marked Hitchcock’s bold entrance into the American film industry with great success.
I absolutely adore the classic movie “Rebecca.” It left an indelible mark on audiences and was a huge success at the box office. Critics couldn’t get enough of Hitchcock’s mastery of suspense in this film, which earned it the coveted title of Best Picture at the 1941 Academy Awards. Pairing “Rebecca” with another Hitchcock gem, “Gaslight,” makes for a fantastic Gothic double feature that’s hard to beat.
Jackman’s 1st Pick: Singin’ in the Rain (1952)
The movie “Singin’ in the Rain” follows the journey of two Hollywood performers, Don Lockwood and Kathy Selden, during the late 1920s. Don is a well-known figure in the silent film industry, frequently paired with Lina Lamont for upcoming productions due to studio plans. However, their relationship is purely professional and fueled by false tabloid reports. When Don encounters a talented chorus girl named Kathy, he develops genuine feelings for her.
Simultaneously, he uncovers a hidden talent for both dance and song. Eager to adapt, he plans his shift towards “talkies” once Warner Bros. debuts “The Jazz Singer,” marking an industry-wide transformation.
Undoubtedly Influential for Jackman
Gene Kelly and Stanley Donen’s musical comedy “Singin’ in the Rain” is widely considered the best musical movie ever produced. This classic has significantly impacted Jackman, an actor known for his work in musicals, showcasing his skills in this genre. Although it didn’t achieve great success initially, it was recognized with a few Academy Award nominations.
Despite not gaining much recognition in its initial release, Singin’ in the Rain eventually became known as one of the greatest American films in the following decades. To this day, few movies can elicit a viewer to rise and join in song, and Singin’ in the Rain is one of those rare exceptions.
You can stream Singin’ in the Rain on Max
Jackman’s 2nd Pick: The Deer Hunter (1978)
In the late 1960s, The Deer Hunter tells the story of three friends, Mike, Steven, and Nick, who grew up together in a blue-collar town in Pennsylvania. The trio subsequently join the Army and are deployed to Vietnam in 1969. Tragically, they are captured, and subjected to an inhumane Russian Roulette ordeal. Miraculously, they find a way to break free from their captors.
Instead, the friends’ experiences, encompassing deep emotional and physical scars, become unbearable, significantly altering their lives in a heart-wrenching manifestation of post-traumatic stress disorder.
An Essential War Film
Michael Cimino’s groundbreaking 1978 film is frequently ranked among the finest American movies. Upon its debut, it received widespread critical praise and earned numerous accolades, including several nods at the Academy Awards. Ultimately, it claimed five out of the nine nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director. Christopher Walken’s remarkable performance in the film resulted in him receiving the Best Supporting Actor award, while Meryl Streep also gained her first Oscar nomination.
Although some critics label the powerful Vietnam War film as historically unreliable, its main theme isn’t about portraying an authentic representation of the war, but rather conveying the devastating impact it had.
Jackman’s 3rd Pick: Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)
In the early 1930s, Indiana Jones, played by Steven Spielberg’s famous character, receives a task from the US government in Raiders of the Lost Ark. The stakes are high as the Nazi regime is determined to obtain an ancient artifact for their sinister purposes. The Ark of the Covenant, a revered religious relic, is believed to be concealed in Egypt. To locate this valuable object before the Nazis do, Indiana Jones must reunite with an old flame to retrieve a crucial medallion.
When they discover the Ark, they are not only confronted by Jones’ adversary, but this enemy has a nefarious plan to harness the Ark’s power and alter history in the favor of the Germans, potentially giving them the edge to win the war. However, his grand scheme turns against him.
The Perfect Adventure Movie
In 1981, George Lucas produced an action-adventure movie that became a huge success. Originally, Steven Spielberg had planned to make a James Bond film, but couldn’t, so he joined forces with Lucas instead. The collaboration resulted in a groundbreaking box office hit, earning nearly $400 million. This achievement solidified Spielberg’s reputation as an accomplished director of blockbuster movies, regardless of genre.
Five Academy Awards went to this film, a win for Spielberg as Best Director for the second time. It marked the beginning of one of history’s most influential movie franchises.
You can stream Raiders of the Lost Ark on Disney+.
Jackman’s 4th Pick: Gallipoli (1981)
Peter Weir’s war drama “Gallipoli” tells the story of two teenage boys from Western Australia who cross paths at a local sports event. Despite coming from different backgrounds, they both decide to join the Australian Army and fight in World War I. However, when the infamous Battle of Gallipoli ensues, Archy and Frank each take separate paths. The harsh realities and chaos of war will ultimately lead them to question their beliefs about the conflict.
One of the Best Australian Films Ever Made
An Australian-born actor like Jackman has made an impressive selection, and it’s challenging to argue against his choice: “Gallipoli” is a remarkable Australian film. This production propelled Mel Gibson into prominence as a serious actor. Moreover, in Australia, it received numerous accolades at the Australian Film Institute Awards. In the United States, it was acknowledged with a nomination for Best Foreign Film at the Golden Globes.
As a devoted viewer, I firmly believe that this movie continues to be an impactful anti-war statement, even without adhering strictly to historical facts. Similar to “The Deer Hunter,” its power lies not in depicting the war itself, but rather in exploring the aftermath and its devastating effects on individuals.
You can stream Gallipoli on Kanopy.
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2024-07-20 02:02