Ryan Reynolds Reveals His Favourite Movies — “With My Last Beating Heart”

To succeed in Hollywood, talent and hard work are essential—but personality can be the secret rocket fuel that propels some actors to stratospheric fame. Few embody this better than Ryan Reynolds, the Canadian star whose charm, wit, and self-deprecating humor have made him one of the most beloved actors of his generation.

From his breakout role in Van Wilder to the irreverent antihero Deadpool, Reynolds has crafted a diverse filmography spanning action, comedy, and drama. Beyond acting, he’s expanded his brand into successful ventures like Aviation Gin and co-owning Wrexham AFC with It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’s Rob McElhenney—showcasing his savvy both on and off screen.

But when asked recently by GQ to name his favourite movies from his own career, Reynolds didn’t pick just one. Instead, he shared a thoughtfully eclectic list: “Buried, Adventureland, The Voices, Mississippi Grind. I love Deadpool with my last beating heart. I like Van Wilder…”

Some of these titles may surprise even his most devoted fans. Take Buried (2010), an intense thriller where Reynolds plays a man trapped alive in a coffin with only a cell phone and lighter—an anxiety-inducing performance that tests his emotional range like few others. Adventureland (2009), a coming-of-age dramedy with Jesse Eisenberg and Kristen Stewart, wasn’t a blockbuster but clearly holds a special place for him.

The Voices (2014) is a dark comedy cult favorite, in which Reynolds’ character is haunted by the conflicting voices of his cat and dog, pulling him toward murder. Despite critical praise, the film didn’t find a wide audience. A year later, Mississippi Grind (2015) saw Reynolds as a gambler’s lucky charm in a character-driven story also adored by critics.

Yet none of these roles eclipse Deadpool, the superhero film that redefined Reynolds’ career and the genre itself. “Since the moment I first put on the suit, it’s been the greatest gig of my life. Even ‘Practice Deadpool’ in 2009,” he said of the role that made him a household name worldwide.

Reynolds’ selections offer a fascinating window into the films that shaped his career—not just the hits but also the hidden gems that showcase his versatility and heart. So, if you’re looking for a Ryan Reynolds movie marathon, this insider’s list might just be the best place to start.