Ryan Reynolds’ Best Movies, Ranked

In the sprawling, often fickle landscape of Hollywood, few stars have navigated the rapids of fame with as much tenacity, wit, and self-aware charm as Ryan Reynolds. His career is a masterclass in perseverance, a journey marked by dizzying highs, infamous lows, and a remarkable reinvention that saw him transform from a sitcom actor into a global icon who didn’t just play a character, but fundamentally became his own brand. Reynolds has cultivated a unique persona that blends razor-sharp, often meta, humour with a surprising depth and an undeniable leading-man charisma.

The path wasn’t always clear. For every early hit that showcased his raw comedic talent, there were periods of uncertainty, attempts to fit into the traditional Hollywood mould of a dramatic actor or, most notably, a conventional superhero. Yet, it was his failures, particularly the infamous Green Lantern, that seemed to fuel his resolve. He learned, adapted, and ultimately fought for over a decade to bring his passion project, Deadpool, to the screen. That film wasn't just a blockbuster; it was a validation, a perfect fusion of actor and character that redefined the superhero genre and solidified the Ryan Reynolds brand as we know it today: irreverent, clever, and always in on the joke.

This list aims to chart that fascinating evolution by ranking his best and most significant films. It’s a collection that showcases his incredible range—from the claustrophobic tension of a man buried alive to the breezy charm of a romantic comedy lead, from voicing beloved animated characters to embodying the Merc with a Mouth. These are the films that have defined his career, delighted audiences, and cemented his status as one of the most beloved and bankable stars of his generation.

12. Van Wilder (2002)

For an entire generation, Ryan Reynolds was Van Wilder. This raucous, gross-out comedy from the National Lampoon brand cemented Reynolds’ initial public persona as the effortlessly cool, quick-witted party king. He plays the titular character, a seventh-year student at Coolidge College who has no intention of ever graduating. He’s a campus legend, throwing epic parties, offering sage (and often terrible) advice, and cruising around in his custom golf cart, the "Wilder-mobile." When his wealthy father cuts him off financially, Van must use his entrepreneurial skills to find a way to pay for his perpetual college lifestyle, all while being profiled by student journalist Gwen Pearson (Tara Reid), who seeks to uncover the man behind the myth.

Looking back, National Lampoon's Van Wilder is a time capsule of early 2000s comedy. It’s unapologetically juvenile and certainly not a film celebrated for its nuance. However, its importance in Reynolds’ career cannot be overstated. This was the role that proved he could carry a film on his charm alone. The script gave him the perfect runway to unleash the fast-talking, sarcastic charisma that would become his trademark. While the film itself is a mixed bag of slapstick and sentimentality, Reynolds is a comedic force of nature within it. He elevates the material, finding a strange likability in a character that could have easily been insufferable. It was the first clear sign of the star power to come, a raw but potent demonstration of the persona he would later refine and perfect.

11. The Croods (2013)

Stepping into the world of animation, Reynolds brought his signature charm to the prehistoric era as the voice of Guy in DreamWorks' The Croods. The film centres on a family of Neanderthals, led by the overprotective patriarch Grug (Nicolas Cage), who have survived by adhering to one simple rule: never leave the cave. His curious and adventurous teenage daughter, Eep (Emma Stone), yearns for a world beyond their rocky confines. Her world is turned upside down when she meets Guy, an inventive and forward-thinking Homo sapien who warns them of an impending cataclysm that will destroy their world. Reluctantly, the Crood family joins Guy on a perilous journey into a vibrant and dangerous new land in search of a new home.

Reynolds is perfectly cast as Guy, the catalyst for the family's evolution. His character is the embodiment of ideas, creativity, and progress—a stark contrast to Grug's fear-based traditionalism. Reynolds’ voice work is filled with energy and warmth, making Guy both a charming love interest for Eep and a source of comedic friction with Grug. He brings a modern sensibility to the prehistoric setting that makes the character instantly relatable. The film itself is a visual feast, a heartwarming adventure about the importance of family, curiosity, and embracing change. It’s one of his most successful forays into voice acting and a wonderful choice for families looking for their next movie night, right alongside other family-friendly summer flicks. His role here proves his appeal can translate to any medium, making him a household name for audiences of all ages.

10. Just Friends (2005)

Leaning into the cringe-comedy of the mid-2000s, Just Friends is a hilarious and often-overlooked gem in Reynolds’ filmography that brilliantly showcases his talent for both physical comedy and romantic charm. He stars as Chris Brander, a successful and womanizing music executive in Los Angeles. But back in high school in New Jersey, he was an overweight, sensitive kid who was hopelessly in love with his best friend, the popular and kind Jamie Palamino (Amy Smart). After a humiliating graduation night where she tells him she loves him "like a brother," a heartbroken Chris dedicates himself to reinvention. A decade later, he's a completely different man, but when his private jet is forced to make an emergency landing near his hometown during Christmas, he finds himself face-to-face with Jamie again, determined to finally escape the "friend zone."

What makes Just Friends so memorable is its chaotic energy and Reynolds' dual performance. In flashbacks, he is completely committed to the role of the awkward, brace-faced teenager, and in the present day, he perfectly captures the slick but deeply insecure adult still haunted by his past. The film features a scene-stealing, unhinged performance from Anna Faris as a pop-diva client, and the rivalry between Chris and another high-school-nerd-turned-hometown-hero, Dusty (Chris Marquette), is pure comedic gold. It’s a laugh-out-loud funny holiday movie about the absurdity of revisiting your past and the realization that some things, and some people, are worth fighting for. The movie has a certain nostalgic feel that will resonate with fans of classic coming-of-age stories set in the summer.

9. The Adam Project (2022)

Re-teaming with Free Guy director Shawn Levy, Reynolds delivered another high-concept, heartfelt blockbuster for Netflix with The Adam Project. The film is a sci-fi adventure that wears its Amblin-era influences on its sleeve, feeling like a modern tribute to classics like E.T. and Back to the Future. Reynolds stars as Adam Reed, a cynical time-jet pilot from a dystopian 2050 who travels back to 2022 on a rogue mission. He accidentally crash-lands and ends up teaming with his own smart-mouthed, 12-year-old self (Walker Scobell) to save the future and make peace with their past, particularly the death of their father (Mark Ruffalo).

The Adam Project is pure cinematic comfort food. It’s an action-packed adventure with a surprisingly potent emotional core. The casting of Walker Scobell as young Adam is a stroke of genius; he perfectly mimics Reynolds' cadence and sarcastic wit, making their interactions the heart and soul of the film. Their banter is hilarious, but it also allows for a unique exploration of self-reflection and regret. Reynolds gets to play his signature character—the fast-talking, sarcastic hero—but he imbues it with a layer of grief and world-weariness that gives the performance real depth. The film tackles themes of loss, father-son relationships, and the difficult process of healing, all wrapped in a fun, family-friendly sci-fi package. It’s a perfect example of the kind of four-quadrant blockbuster that Reynolds has become so adept at producing, a film that feels both nostalgic and fresh, much like some of the classic Disney live-action films worth revisiting.

8. Definitely, Maybe (2008)

Before he was a global action star, Ryan Reynolds was a reliable and incredibly charming romantic-comedy lead, and Definitely, Maybe is arguably the best and most unique film from that era of his career. He stars as Will Hayes, a political consultant in the midst of a divorce. When his inquisitive 10-year-old daughter, Maya (Abigail Breslin), starts asking questions about his life before he was married, Will agrees to tell her the story of his three great loves, changing their names so Maya has to guess which one becomes her mother. The film unfolds in a series of flashbacks, recounting Will's relationships with his college sweetheart Emily (Elizabeth Banks), the free-spirited journalist Summer (Rachel Weisz), and the confident, apolitical April (Isla Fisher).

What sets Definitely, Maybe apart from other rom-coms is its clever narrative structure. It’s a love story told as a mystery, and it’s as much about the journey as it is about the destination. The film is a refreshingly mature and realistic look at love, acknowledging that relationships are messy, complicated, and often don't follow a straight line. Reynolds is fantastic as Will, showcasing a vulnerability and earnestness that is incredibly endearing. He has wonderful chemistry with all three of his leading ladies, making each relationship feel distinct and meaningful. It’s a smart, sweet, and surprisingly poignant film that works as both a charming romance and a nostalgic look back at the 1990s. It’s a feel-good summer film that you can watch any time of year.

7. The Proposal (2009)

A bona fide blockbuster hit that cemented Reynolds' status as a top-tier romantic lead, The Proposal is a classic "enemies-to-lovers" story executed to perfection. The film pairs Reynolds with the equally charismatic Sandra Bullock, and their incredible on-screen chemistry is the engine that drives this delightful comedy. Bullock plays Margaret Tate, a tyrannical Canadian book editor in New York who is facing deportation. In a moment of panic, she bullies her long-suffering assistant, Andrew Paxton (Reynolds), into pretending to be her fiancé. To sell the lie to a skeptical immigration agent, the mismatched pair must travel to Andrew's hometown in Alaska to meet his eccentric family (played by Mary Steenburgen, Craig T. Nelson, and a scene-stealing Betty White).

The Proposal hits all the familiar rom-com beats, but it does so with such charm and wit that it feels fresh and exciting. The "fish out of water" comedy of the high-strung city editor in rugged Alaska is hilarious, and the supporting cast is fantastic. However, the film belongs to Bullock and Reynolds. Their comedic timing is impeccable, and the slow thaw of their characters' relationship, from begrudging co-conspirators to genuine partners, is both believable and incredibly satisfying to watch. The iconic scene where a naked Bullock and Reynolds collide is a masterclass in physical comedy. The film was a massive commercial success, proving that the classic romantic comedy, when done right, was still a powerful box office draw. For those who enjoy a fun escape, you might also like these road-trip movies to inspire your next trip.

6. Adventureland (2009)

In this wonderfully bittersweet and nostalgic coming-of-age story from director Greg Mottola (Superbad), Reynolds takes on a supporting role that brilliantly subverts his charming leading-man persona. Set in the summer of 1987, the film follows recent college graduate James Brennan (Jesse Eisenberg), whose plans for a summer tour of Europe are dashed when his parents have a financial setback. He's forced to take a humiliating job at a dilapidated local amusement park, Adventureland. There, he falls for his sharp, enigmatic co-worker, Em Lewin (Kristen Stewart), and gets a harsh but necessary education in the messy realities of love and life.

Reynolds plays Mike Connell, the park's handsome, older maintenance man who is secretly having an affair with Em. Connell is a fascinating character; on the surface, he's the cool, confident guy that James aspires to be, but underneath, he's a pathetic and lonely man trapped by his own bad decisions. Reynolds plays him with a subtle, melancholic charm that makes the character both pitiable and infuriating. It’s a testament to his skill as an actor that he can make Connell so unlikable yet so compelling. Adventureland is a beautifully crafted film, filled with authentic performances and a killer soundtrack. Reynolds' role, though small, is crucial to the film's emotional weight and serves as an important reminder of his dramatic capabilities outside of comedy and action. It's a film that perfectly captures the feeling of a transformative summer, a popular theme in many great stories.

5. Free Guy (2021)

A joyous, inventive, and genuinely uplifting blockbuster, Free Guy is a film that feels like a perfect distillation of the Ryan Reynolds brand: funny, heartfelt, and endlessly optimistic. He stars as Guy, a cheerful bank teller who lives a simple, repetitive life in the chaotic, open-world video game "Free City." He is a non-player character (NPC), blissfully unaware that his world is a digital creation. That is until he meets the mysterious Molotov Girl (Jodie Comer) and, through a glitch in his programming, begins to break free from his scripted existence. He starts making his own choices, becoming a force for good in a world designed for mayhem, and in doing so, becomes a global sensation known as "Blue Shirt Guy."

Free Guy is a triumph of high-concept filmmaking. It's a clever and loving satire of video game culture, but its themes of free will, identity, and breaking the mould are universal. Reynolds is absolutely perfect as Guy, imbuing the character with a wide-eyed innocence and infectious optimism that is impossible not to love. His journey from a background character to the hero of his own story is both hilarious and surprisingly moving. The film is also a showcase for the incredible Jodie Comer and features a delightfully villainous turn from Taika Waititi. Directed by Shawn Levy, Free Guy is a visually spectacular and emotionally resonant adventure that proved to be a rare thing: a wholly original, non-franchise blockbuster that captured the hearts of audiences and critics alike. It’s a film that celebrates the hero within us all, a theme that resonates whether you're in a video game or the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

4. Buried (2010)

In a stark and terrifying departure from his comedic roles, Buried features what is arguably the most daring and physically demanding performance of Reynolds’ career. The entire 95-minute film takes place within the confines of a wooden coffin buried somewhere in the Iraqi desert. Reynolds plays Paul Conroy, an American truck driver who awakens to find himself in this horrifying predicament. With only a Zippo lighter, a pencil, and a nearly-dead mobile phone, Paul must piece together how he got there and try to negotiate his escape with his captors and a world of bureaucratic red tape on the other end of the line.

Directed by Rodrigo Cortés, Buried is a masterclass in sustained tension and claustrophobic filmmaking. The camera never leaves the coffin, forcing the audience to experience every moment of Paul's terror, frustration, and fleeting hope in real-time. The film rests entirely on Reynolds' shoulders, and he delivers a tour-de-force performance. He cycles through a staggering range of emotions—panic, despair, anger, gallows humour—all while confined to a space barely bigger than himself. It’s a raw, visceral, and utterly compelling performance that proved beyond a shadow of a doubt that Reynolds was far more than just a handsome, witty movie star. He had serious dramatic chops. While it’s a difficult and harrowing watch, Buried is an unforgettable cinematic experience and a testament to Reynolds’ incredible talent and commitment as an actor. This type of intense character study is a world away from a lighthearted Disney holiday special, showcasing his incredible versatility.

3. Deadpool 2 (2018)

How do you follow up a film that completely shattered expectations and redefined a genre? You go bigger, bolder, and even more meta. Deadpool 2 takes everything that made the first film a smash hit and cranks it up to eleven. After a personal tragedy, Wade Wilson/Deadpool (Reynolds) finds himself at a low point. He’s given a new sense of purpose when he takes it upon himself to protect a troubled young mutant named Russell (Julian Dennison) from Cable (Josh Brolin), a grizzled, time-traveling soldier with a mysterious grudge. To combat this new threat, Deadpool forms his own team of "superheroes," the X-Force, with predictably chaotic and hilarious results.

Deadpool 2 succeeds by expanding the world and the emotional stakes without losing the irreverent, fourth-wall-breaking spirit of the original. The action sequences are more elaborate, the jokes are faster and more relentless, and the introduction of characters like the impossibly lucky Domino (Zazie Beetz) is a stroke of genius. Josh Brolin provides the perfect stoic straight man to Deadpool's manic energy. But beneath the gore and the gags, the film has a surprising amount of heart. It's a story about found family, grief, and the difficult path to becoming a true hero. Reynolds is once again perfect in the role he was born to play, co-writing the screenplay and pouring his heart and soul into every frame. It’s a rare sequel that manages to be just as good, if not in some ways better, than its predecessor. The film's self-aware humour even extends to poking fun at Reynolds' own past roles, making it a film for those who truly love the ins and outs of cinematic universes.

2. Mississippi Grind (2015)

In the same year that he was preparing to unleash Deadpool upon the world, Ryan Reynolds delivered one of the most acclaimed and nuanced performances of his career in this gritty, atmospheric gambling drama from directors Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck (Captain Marvel). Mississippi Grind is a 1970s-style character study that follows Gerry (Ben Mendelsohn), a talented but deeply troubled poker player whose addiction has cost him everything. He meets Curtis (Reynolds), a charismatic and seemingly carefree younger gambler who he believes is his personal good-luck charm. The two men embark on a road trip down the Mississippi River, from Iowa to a high-stakes poker game in New Orleans, each hoping to change their fortunes.

This is a quiet, contemplative film, a world away from the blockbusters Reynolds is known for, and he is absolutely phenomenal in it. As Curtis, he is charming and magnetic, but he slowly reveals layers of sadness and loneliness beneath his confident exterior. His chemistry with Ben Mendelsohn is electric, their relationship forming the melancholic heart of the film. It’s a beautifully observed story about addiction, desperation, and the elusive nature of luck. Reynolds’ performance is subtle and restrained, proving that he can be just as compelling when he’s not relying on his rapid-fire wit. Mississippi Grind is a critical darling and a must-see for anyone who wants to appreciate the full scope of his talent as an actor. It's a true hidden gem movie, showcasing a side of Reynolds that deserves to be seen.

1. Deadpool (2016)

There could be no other film at the top of this list. Deadpool is more than just Ryan Reynolds’ best movie; it is the culmination of a decade-long crusade, a passion project that he willed into existence through sheer force of will. It’s the film that saved a beloved comic book character from the cinematic scrap heap (after the disastrous depiction in X-Men Origins: Wolverine) and, in the process, completely resurrected and redefined Reynolds’ career. He stars as Wade Wilson, a former Special Forces operative turned small-time mercenary who, after being diagnosed with terminal cancer, undergoes a rogue experiment that leaves him with accelerated healing powers and a horribly scarred appearance. Armed with his new abilities and a dark, twisted sense of humour, he adopts the alter ego Deadpool and hunts down the man who nearly destroyed his life.

Deadpool was a cultural phenomenon. Its R-rated, fourth-wall-breaking, gleefully profane take on the superhero genre felt like a breath of fresh air in a landscape dominated by more earnest fare. The film’s brilliant and now-legendary marketing campaign, spearheaded by Reynolds himself, was a huge part of its success. The film is perfectly paced, savagely funny, and surprisingly sweet, with the love story between Wade and Vanessa (Morena Baccarin) providing a genuine emotional anchor. Reynolds embodies the character so completely that it’s impossible to imagine anyone else in the role. He fought for this film, he believed in it, and that love and dedication is evident in every single frame. Deadpool is not just a great superhero movie; it’s a landmark film that changed the game and gave us one of the most perfect pairings of actor and character in cinematic history. For those who love superhero stories, this is a must-watch, a perfect companion to deep dives into the history of Marvel's first family.

Conclusion

From campus party king to the Merc with a Mouth, Ryan Reynolds' journey through Hollywood has been anything but conventional. His filmography is a testament to an actor who refused to be put in a box, constantly searching for roles that would challenge him and entertain audiences in new and unexpected ways. He has proven his mettle in high-concept comedies, heartfelt dramas, family-friendly adventures, and, of course, the genre-bending blockbusters that have become his signature.

What makes Reynolds such an enduring star is his unique ability to connect with his audience. He has cultivated a persona that is both aspirational and approachable, a movie star who also feels like a friend you’d want to grab a drink with. He is a master of the modern media landscape, a savvy businessman, and, above all, a talented and dedicated actor who fought to bring his defining role to life. The films on this list are not just his best; they are the mile markers on the fascinating, hilarious, and ultimately triumphant road trip that is the career of Ryan Reynolds.

External Links

1. Rotten Tomatoes: All Ryan Reynolds Movies Ranked: See the critical consensus for Reynolds' entire filmography.

2. IMDb: Ryan Reynolds: Explore his full list of acting, producing, and writing credits.

3. The Story of How 'Deadpool' Got Made - The Hollywood Reporter: An in-depth article on the decade-long struggle to bring the film to the screen.

4. 'Buried' Official Trailer: Watch the tense trailer for Reynolds' critically acclaimed dramatic performance.

5. Aviation American Gin: Explore the website for the gin company famously owned and marketed by Reynolds.

6. Mint Mobile: The official site for the mobile carrier Reynolds became a part-owner and spokesman for.

7. 'Free Guy' Official Trailer: See the trailer for the original sci-fi action-comedy blockbuster.

8. Welcome to Wrexham Official Site: Learn more about the football club co-owned by Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.

FAQs

1. What is Ryan Reynolds' highest-grossing movie? As of mid-2025, the Deadpool films are his highest-grossing movies as a lead actor, with Deadpool 2 having earned over $785 million worldwide. His most recent entry, Deadpool & Wolverine, is expected to surpass this.

2. How long did it take for Ryan Reynolds to get Deadpool made? It was a long and arduous process that took over 11 years from when he first became attached to the character in the early 2000s to the film's release in 2016.

3. Is Ryan Reynolds Canadian? Yes, he was born and raised in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, and holds dual American and Canadian citizenship.

   
   

4. Has he won any major acting awards? While he has won numerous popular awards like Critics' Choice Awards and People's Choice Awards, his most significant nomination was a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy for his performance in Deadpool.

   
   

5. What are some of his upcoming movies? As of July 2025, his most anticipated upcoming film is Deadpool & Wolverine. He is also attached to several other projects in various stages of development.

6. Which Ryan Reynolds movies are considered family-friendly? The Croods, Detective Pikachu, The Adam Project, Free Guy, and IF are all excellent choices for family viewing. Many of his earlier romantic comedies like Definitely, Maybe are also suitable for older teens.

7. Did he really get buried in a coffin for the movie Buried? While he wasn't actually buried underground, he did spend the entire shoot inside a specially designed coffin set that was progressively filled with sand. He has described the experience as incredibly challenging both physically and mentally.

8. What other businesses is Ryan Reynolds involved in? Besides his acting career, Reynolds is a highly successful entrepreneur. He has had major ownership stakes in companies like Aviation American Gin (which he sold for a massive profit), Mint Mobile, and he is the co-owner of the Welsh football club, Wrexham A.F.C.

   
   

9. What was his first big role? His breakthrough role in television was on the sitcom Two Guys and a Girl (originally titled Two Guys, a Girl and a Pizza Place), which ran from 1998 to 2001. His first major leading role in a film was National Lampoon's Van Wilder in 2002.

   
   

10. Does he write any of his own material? Yes, he is a credited writer on both Deadpool 2 and Deadpool & Wolverine. He is also known for his improvisational skills and contributing heavily to the witty dialogue in many of his films.