The Humble Horror Origins of Ryan Reynolds

Ryan Reynolds, the Canadian actor best known for his roles in comedies and superhero films, also has a background in the horror genre. In fact, some of his earliest acting roles were in horror films and television shows. Let's take a look at the horror origins of Ryan Reynolds.

Reynolds' first foray into horror was in the 1993 Canadian horror anthology series "The Odyssey." He played the role of Macro in an episode titled "Jamal: A Time of Darkness," which followed a group of teenagers who discover an abandoned hospital and encounter a terrifying monster. Although Reynolds only had a small role, it was a sign of things to come.

In 2002, Reynolds starred in the Canadian horror film "National Lampoon's Van Wilder," which, while not a traditional horror film, has elements of horror and gross-out comedy. Reynolds played the title character, a college student who has been in school for seven years and is known for throwing wild parties. While the film received mixed reviews, it was a box office success and helped establish Reynolds as a leading man.

In 2005, Reynolds starred in the horror film "The Amityville Horror," a remake of the classic 1979 film of the same name. Reynolds played George Lutz, a man who moves into a new home with his family, only to discover that the house has a dark and deadly past. The film received mixed reviews, but Reynolds' performance was praised for its intensity and conviction.

After "The Amityville Horror," Reynolds continued to work in a variety of genres, but his horror roots were never far behind. In 2009, he starred in the horror-comedy "Deadpool" as the title character, a wisecracking mercenary who gains superhuman abilities and sets out to track down the man who nearly destroyed his life. While "Deadpool" is primarily a superhero film, it also has elements of horror and gore, and Reynolds' irreverent humor and charm helped make it a critical and commercial success.

In 2015, Reynolds starred in the horror-comedy "The Voices," in which he played a mentally unstable factory worker who talks to his pets (who talk back to him). The film received mixed reviews, but Reynolds' performance was praised for its range and commitment to the character.

Most recently, Reynolds starred in the horror-comedy "Free Guy" in 2021, which tells the story of a video game character who becomes self-aware and tries to save his world from being shut down. While not a traditional horror film, it has elements of horror and suspense, and Reynolds' natural charisma and humour make it a fun and enjoyable ride.

In conclusion, while Ryan Reynolds may be best known for his comedic and superhero roles, his background in the horror genre cannot be overlooked. From his early roles in "The Odyssey" and "National Lampoon's Van Wilder" to his more recent turns in "Deadpool" and "Free Guy," Reynolds has proven himself to be a versatile actor who can excel in a variety of genres, including horror. It will be interesting to see where his horror career takes him in the future.