Ryan Gosling's career has been a rollercoaster of hits and misses, but one thing is clear: his passion for The Nice Guys is unwavering. In a recent interview, Gosling revealed that the 2016 buddy-cop movie, which he starred in alongside Russell Crowe, was a victim of its own success. The film, directed by Shane Black, received solid reviews and was generally well-received by fans, but it never got the sequel it deserved. Gosling attributes this to the film's opening weekend performance, which was overshadowed by the surprise hit, The Angry Birds Movie.
The Nice Guys made a respectable $11.2 million in the US during its first weekend, but it was no match for The Angry Birds Movie's $38.2 million. Gosling, whose last name is fittingly another word for a baby bird, expressed his frustration during a press event for his latest film, Project Hail Mary. He stated, 'We got killed by Angry Birds.'
Gosling's comments highlight a crucial aspect of Hollywood's business model. In his words, 'So much of a sequel, I think, is decided by the opening weekend of a movie.' The Angry Birds Movie's success at the box office led to a sequel in 2019, while The Nice Guys, despite its strong performance, was a one-and-done. This raises a deeper question: what makes a movie a success in the eyes of Hollywood?
The Nice Guys' story is a fascinating one. Initially considered a box-office flop, the film gained a dedicated following after its release on home video and streaming platforms. This demonstrates the power of word-of-mouth marketing and the potential for second chances in the entertainment industry. Gosling's success post-The Nice Guys further cements his status as a highly sought-after actor, with roles in La La Land, Blade Runner 2049, First Man, The Gray Man, Barbie, and The Fall Guy. His performances in La La Land and Barbie earned him Academy Award nominations.
Gosling's journey from The Nice Guys to his current projects showcases his versatility and talent. As he continues to explore different genres and collaborate with renowned directors, one can only wonder what the future holds for this talented actor. Perhaps, one day, we'll see a sequel to The Nice Guys, but for now, Gosling's focus remains on his latest film, Project Hail Mary, where he plays a science teacher on a mission to save Earth. As an audience, we can only hope that his efforts in this film will be as successful as his previous endeavors, ensuring that his career continues to soar to new heights.
