If you’re a fan of Ryan Gosling, you’ve likely seen the many versatile roles he’s taken on over the years and may be looking for more. He’s ultimately become one of the most beloved actors. Here’s a list of some of Ryan Gosling’s best movies to watch as a devoted fan.
The Notebook
One of Gosling’s most iconic films still beloved to this day is The Notebook. It’s a romantic drama, directed by Nick Cassavetes, released in 2004 and based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks of the same name. It stars Gosling and Rachel McAdams as two lovers from different backgrounds who fight for their love affairs. It’s become a classic and stands as one of Ryan’s most beloved films.
Half Nelson
Half Nelson is another one of Gosling’s movies that’s often overlooked, but equally impressive. It’s a drama released in 2006 and directed by Ryan Fleck. Gosling stars as a dedicated teacher and talented basketball coach who forms an unlikely friendship with one of his students. He ultimately takes on the role of a mentor and father figure, while struggling with a drug addiction.
Blue Valentine
Blue Valentine is another drama released in 2010 and stars Gosling and Michelle Williams as an estranged couple dealing with the breakdown of their marriage and marital problems. It’s a raw and emotional rollercoaster as it goes from the lighter moments of love to the depths of despair. Gosling’s performance earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor.
Drive
Drive is a 2011 crime film starring Gosling. It’s directed by Nicolas Winding Refn and follows a stunt driver who moonlights as a getaway driver. It’s considered to be one of his better films, as well as one of the best films of 2011.
La La Land
La La Land is a musical film that stars Gosling and Emma Stone. It follows an aspiring actress and a jazz musician who struggle to make it in Los Angeles while finding and trying to keep love in their lives. It’s a musical masterpiece as the two use dancing and singing to express themselves. It was a major success upon its release in 2016, winning numerous awards.
Crazy, Stupid, Love.
Crazy, Stupid, Love. (2011) is a romantic comedy starring Gosling and Julianne Moore. It follows the marriage crisis of Moore’s character which leads to her husband (Steve Carell) being taken under the wing of a smooth-talking ladies’ man (Gosling). He tries to curry romantic success for Carell, but finds himself in the midst of some unexpected complexities.
The Place Beyond the Pines
The Place Beyond the Pines is a 2013 crime drama directed by Derek Cianfrance and stars Gosling, Bradley Cooper and Eva Mendes. It follows a motorcycle stuntman (Gosling) who discovers he has a child followed by a custody battle. He then sets out on a journey to turn his life around, as he seeks out vengeance and finds redemption.
First Man
First Man (2018) is a biographical drama starring Gosling as Neil Armstrong. It follows the first man on the moon, from 1961-1969, as he endeavors to make history and accomplish one of the most challenging feats of humanity. It’s an inspiring tale that showcases the determination and courage of one of the greatest astronauts of all time.
Ryan Gosling is one of the most well-known actors in the industry, and it’s not hard to see why. With so many incredible movies under his belt, fans have plenty of great films to choose from. From romantic dramas to action-packed thrillers, there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking for the best of Ryan Gosling, consider some of the films listed above.
