Ryan Reynolds’ 4 Favorite Films Are Nothing Like Deadpool—#1 Will Seriously Mess With Your Head

Ryan Reynolds is known for his quick wit, snarky humor, and his blockbuster performances in films like Deadpool and The Proposal. With a career that spans from romantic comedies to superhero blockbusters, Reynolds has become one of Hollywood’s most beloved stars. But as much as he’s known for his on-screen charm and entrepreneurial spirit—he’s made savvy business moves, including buying Welsh football club Wrexham—his personal movie taste is something of a mystery to many. When asked in 2024 to name his four all-time favorite films, Reynolds surprised fans and critics alike with a list that defies the typical comedic actor’s preferences.

The list includes Gaslight (1944), Grosse Pointe Blank (1997), Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (1987), and Rebecca (1940)—a fascinating and diverse selection of films. Let’s take a closer look at why these particular movies might have made the cut for one of Hollywood’s brightest stars.

1. Gaslight (1944)

Perhaps the most unexpected pick on Reynolds’s list, Gaslight is a psychological thriller from the golden age of cinema. Directed by George Cukor and starring Ingrid Bergman and Charles Boyer, this film is credited with coining the term “gaslighting,” a now-popular phrase used to describe manipulative behavior designed to make someone doubt their own perception of reality. The plot follows Bergman’s character, who begins to question her sanity as her husband (Boyer) subtly manipulates her into believing she’s losing her mind. It’s a dark, moody film with an atmosphere of dread and tension, far removed from the light-hearted comedies Reynolds is known for. Despite the stark contrast to his usual roles, Gaslight’s emotional depth and psychological complexity may explain why it made Reynolds’s top list.

2. Grosse Pointe Blank (1997)

Next up is Grosse Pointe Blank, a cult classic starring John Cusack as Martin Blank, a hitman who returns to his hometown for his high school reunion while completing a job. It’s a blend of dark humor, violence, and a healthy dose of self-reflection, something Reynolds fans can undoubtedly appreciate. Known for his snarky charm, Reynolds has often gravitated toward roles with a similar sardonic edge, and Grosse Pointe Blank—a film filled with deadpan humor and emotional conflict—seems like a natural influence. The film’s mix of black comedy and existential themes is something Reynolds could easily relate to, especially given the often biting sarcasm he brings to his own characters.

3. Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (1987)

John Candy and Steve Martin star in this Thanksgiving classic about two mismatched travelers trying to get home for the holidays. While on the surface it’s a comedy about the chaos of travel, Planes, Trains, and Automobiles is far more layered. Steve Martin’s character, a grumpy marketing executive, is at times cruel to Candy’s jovial but well-meaning salesman, making the film a black comedy with tragic undertones. Reynolds, who frequently takes on roles that blend humor with darker or more serious tones, might admire this blend of heartache and hilarity. The film’s ability to shift between comedy and pathos resonates with the kinds of movies Reynolds is often drawn to, making it no surprise it landed on his list.

4. Rebecca (1940)

Alfred Hitchcock’s Rebecca is another iconic choice for Reynolds. Based on the novel by Daphne du Maurier, this psychological thriller tells the story of a young woman who marries a wealthy widower, only to find herself haunted by the memory of his first wife, Rebecca. It’s a tense, gothic tale filled with suspense, deceit, and a sense of foreboding. Much like Gaslight, Rebecca deals with themes of manipulation and the psychological effects of grief and jealousy. Hitchcock’s meticulous direction and Joan Fontaine’s haunting performance may have made a lasting impression on Reynolds, who has often worked with psychological complexity in his own roles.

A Surprising Range of Film Choices

What’s striking about Reynolds’s choices is how diverse they are. From the dark psychological tension of Gaslight and Rebecca to the biting sarcasm of Grosse Pointe Blank and the emotional depth of Planes, Trains, and Automobiles, Reynolds has shown a deep appreciation for films that offer much more than surface-level entertainment. These films are known for their complex characters, nuanced storytelling, and, in many cases, their exploration of darker themes beneath the humor—elements that Reynolds himself often brings to his own roles.

This eclectic mix of films shows that while Reynolds is a master of comedic timing, he also has a keen eye for storytelling that delves into the human psyche and the complexities of relationships. His choices reflect an appreciation for films that are not afraid to challenge expectations and explore deeper emotional territory—whether through suspense, comedy, or drama. Fans may know him best for his wisecracking characters, but these picks reveal a more thoughtful and layered side to the actor’s cinematic tastes.