The fall guy: A thrilling return to the screen
The Fall Guy is set to make its streaming debut on Peacock, bringing its high-octane stunts and action-packed sequences to your home screens on August 30. This release isn’t just a simple streaming drop; it comes with an extended version that promises even more excitement.
Extended cut: More action, more drama
The extended version of The Fall Guy, starring Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt, will also be available on Peacock the same day. This special cut, titled The Fall Guy: The Extended Cut, adds 20 minutes of new scenes that were not part of the theatrical release. According to NBCUniversal, this version includes “more action, stunts, romance, and more sexy bacon!” The total runtime for this extended cut is 146 minutes, offering fans a more immersive experience.
A closer look at the film
Directed by David Leitch, The Fall Guy made its way to Video on Demand (VOD) less than a month after its theatrical release. Despite a somewhat underwhelming opening weekend at the U.S. box office, where it grossed $28.5 million against a projected $30 million to $40 million, the film has managed to garner a global box office total of $171.8 million. This is a notable achievement considering its hefty budget, which ranged between $125 million and $150 million.
Plot and characters
In The Fall Guy, Ryan Gosling takes on the role of Colt Seavers, a Hollywood stuntman who retires after suffering an on-set injury. However, he is pulled back into the industry when a movie star, played by Aaron Taylor-Johnson, goes missing. This movie star was set to lead a film directed by Colt’s ex-girlfriend, portrayed by Emily Blunt. The film’s plot thickens as Colt navigates the dangerous and thrilling world of Hollywood stunts to solve the mystery.
The cast is further enriched by performances from Stephanie Hsu, Teresa Palmer, Hannah Waddingham, and Winston Duke. The film is distributed by Universal Pictures and is based on the 1980s TV series of the same name, which also focused on the lives of stunt performers.
Behind the scenes
David Leitch, a former stunt performer himself, directed and produced the movie alongside his wife, Kelly McCormick, through their production company, 87North Productions. McCormick has described Leitch as a “maximalist,” emphasizing his tendency to go all out in his filmmaking approach. “So more is more for him, and you never know if you’re going to laugh or cry around any corner,” McCormick mentioned in an interview.
Critical reception
The film has received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its ambitious scope and others noting its overstuffed nature. One film critic remarked, “If the movie feels overstuffed, that’s because Leitch wants to give audiences more than just a taste, but the full buffet of what his trade is capable of. By the end, we can’t help appreciating just how hard it is to make action look easy.”
Personal reflections for cinema enthusiasts
For fans of action-comedy and those who appreciate the art of stunt work, The Fall Guy offers a unique blend of humor, romance, and high-stakes action. The extended cut, in particular, provides a deeper dive into the world of Hollywood stunts, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes magic of filmmaking.
Watch the trailer
To get a taste of what The Fall Guy has to offer, check out the trailer. This will give you a glimpse into the thrilling world that awaits you on Peacock.
Final thoughts
The Fall Guy is more than just an action-comedy; it’s a tribute to the unsung heroes of Hollywood—the stunt performers. With its star-studded cast, thrilling plot, and the added bonus of an extended cut, this film is set to captivate audiences both old and new. Whether you’re a fan of the original 1980s TV series or new to the story, The Fall Guy promises an entertaining ride from start to finish.