The action-comedy film 'The Fall Guy' made a splash at SXSW, injecting star power and a fresh take on moviemaking into the festival. Starring Ryan Gosling, Emily Blunt, and Hannah Waddingham, the movie diverges from the original drama series and follows Gosling's character, a veteran stuntman, as he navigates a murder plot and finds love with a budding director.
Director David Leitch described the film as a love letter to stunts and film crews, praising Gosling's versatility as an actor that allowed them to explore various genres within the movie. Gosling, in turn, drew inspiration from Leitch and producer Kelly McCormick, highlighting their dedication to their crew and the filmmaking process.
Blunt's character in the film transitions from a camera operator to a director, offering a glimpse into the chaotic yet accurate portrayal of the filmmaking world. The cast and crew aimed to showcase the behind-the-scenes efforts of the often-overlooked crew members who pour their passion and attention to detail into every project.
'The Fall Guy' also advocates for stunt performers to receive recognition at the Oscars, with a direct plug for a dedicated award category. Leitch and McCormick's efforts to highlight stunt work during the recent Academy Awards ceremony signal a hopeful future for stunt performers to be acknowledged by the industry.
Leitch expressed optimism that the Academy is open to the idea of introducing a stunt category, emphasizing the importance of honoring the hard work and dedication of these professionals. The film serves as a tribute to the unsung heroes of the film industry and aims to elevate the audience's appreciation for the collaborative efforts that go into creating cinematic magic.