Inspired by the Lee Majors television series of the same name (1981 to 1986), the story centres on stuntman Colt Seavers (Ryan Gosling), who has quietly retired from show business following an accident.
When former flame Jody Moreno (Emily Blunt), a director, asks him to work for her, he jumps at the chance, hoping it will lead to a lovers’ reunion. Producer Gail Meyer (Hannah Waddingham) tells him there is a hitch: The star, Tom Ryder (Aaron Taylor-Johnson), has disappeared.
Colt and Jody are former lovers in their 40s, so their romantic interactions lean towards the regretful rather than the erotic. The subdued tone makes a good contrast with the turbulent action that surrounds the couple.
A supporting cast loaded with actors with comedy credentials – Waddingham and Stephanie Hsu among them – gives the story plenty of airiness.
Director David Leitch, a stuntman-turned-specialist in stories grounded in real stunts and fights (Bullet Train, 2022; Atomic Blonde, 2017), makes sure The Fall Guy puts the talent of his stunt team on full, jaw-dropping display. His concern for stunt quality is obvious, as is his respect for the craft.
One Life (PG)
110 minutes
4 stars