As a longtime fan of Ryan Reynolds, I can confidently say that his performance in “The Voices” is one of his most underrated and impressive roles to date. This film showcases a more serious side of Reynolds that we don’t often get to see, while still maintaining the charm and humor that has made him a household name.
Ryan Reynolds’ acting journey commenced early on; it was during the late ’90s sitcom “Two Guys, a Girl, and a Pizza Place” that many initially became acquainted with him. However, those who watched this comedy series about young adults managing a pizzeria would not have anticipated Reynolds’ rise to Hollywood stardom. His path was somewhat lengthy, and he gained some initial recognition (or notoriety) through teen comedies such as “Van Wilder” and “Waiting“. Eventually, Reynolds transformed into one of the highest-grossing superheroes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe with his portrayal of Wade Wilson, also known as Deadpool.
Throughout his career spanning over 80 films and TV shows, Reynolds has shown potential to become a pop-culture mainstay even before the fame of Deadpool. One film that particularly stands out is the 2014 dark comedy horror thriller, The Voices, considered one of his best performances. This movie, especially adored by those who appreciate Reynolds’ charm, showcases one of his finest acting displays.
Ryan Reynolds Plays Multiple Characters in ‘The Voices’
In a different role, Ryan Reynolds portrays Jerry Hickfang, a factory worker grappling with intense mental health challenges, such as persistent hallucinations he conceals from his peers. Jerry confides in his companions, a cheerful and understanding dog named Bosco, and a cunning cat called Mr. Whiskers (both voiced by Reynolds). Despite his difficulties, Jerry’s outgoing demeanor and conventional good looks lead him to ask out a coworker he admires, Fiona (Gemma Arterton). Unfortunately, due to a miscommunication, Jerry unintentionally stabs her and takes her life.
In an effort to maintain his relationship, Jerry finds himself eliminating anyone who threatens to expose his criminal past and personal issues related to his mental health. Even as his beloved pet tries to help him stay grounded, this becomes increasingly challenging for Jerry.
“Last week, you expressed concern about possibly crossing a line between good and bad deeds. I told you not to worry because you’re still a good boy.
The film titled “The Voices” was directed by Marjane Satrapi, who gained international recognition in her career from the 2007 animated hit, Persepolis. After its debut at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival, “The Voices” had a limited release on February 6, 2015, earning a worldwide total of $2.2 million despite an $11 million production cost. However, it received favorable reviews from critics and currently boasts a 74% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
This Box Office Flop Has Ryan Reynolds’ Best Performance to Date
Despite its brief theater release and independent production, “The Voices” – led by Ryan Reynolds in a dark comedy role – failed to reach a large audience. This is regrettable because the film showcases Reynolds at his finest, blending his comedic talents with a more somber tone that ultimately shaped him into the versatile, respected actor we know today. The humor here is less boisterous, representing a shift from his early, over-the-top comedy fame (which, in no way, diminishes the appeal of an exuberant Ryan Reynolds). Reynolds’ performances alongside co-stars Anna Kendrick and Gemma Arterton are captivating, showcasing the charisma that has earned him the admiration of countless fans.
In the film “The Voices,” Ryan Reynolds portrays Jerry Hickfang, a complex character who is both charismatic and a mentally ill serial killer. This character requires an actor to skillfully walk a tightrope as he must evoke empathy while also maintaining an unsettling edge. The movie challenges viewers to empathize with Jerry’s struggles despite his past actions. Reynolds’ portrayal of Jerry is captivating, and although he is a killer with mental health issues, the audience finds more compassion for him rather than fear. The balance between Jerry’s relatable qualities and dark tendencies highlights Reynolds’ exceptional performance in the role.
Furthermore, Reynolds’ portrayal of talking cats and dogs in the dark comedy adds an endearing, unforeseen touch. This also showcases Reynolds’ abilities to a greater extent. The animals, representing various aspects of Jerry’s character, are skillfully brought to life with just the right blend of sincerity and absurdity by Reynolds.
Why You Need to Watch ‘The Voices’ & Where to Stream It
As a film enthusiast, I must say that “The Voices” might not seem like typical Ryan Reynolds territory due to its blend of horror and dark comedy, but fear not! This movie maintains an uplifting tone amidst its grim content, making it more amusing than spine-tingling. Although Jerry’s character may hear voices, he’s certainly no modern version of the infamous “Son of Sam.” The film employs a surreal aesthetic that keeps things grounded in reality while still injecting humor during intense scenes. So if you’re a fan of Reynolds and are hesitant about this film due to its genre label, don’t worry – you’ll be treated to fresh aspects of the actor and an entirely unique satirical thriller experience!
Absolutely, this comedy has a dark edge, yet Reynolds’ endearing personality makes even the grisly murders and dismemberments seem less harsh. The actors are top-notch, the dialogue is witty and amusing, the direction is daring and visually vibrant. To put it simply, the pets and Ryan Reynolds bring twice the cuteness to the table; what else could you ask for? You can catch “The Voices” for free on Pluto TV or The Roku Channel, or rent or purchase it on Apple TV, Prime Video, or YouTube. Here’s a sneak peek at the trailer below:
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2024-12-15 06:03