In a recent interview with GQ, Hollywood heartthrob Ryan Gosling opened up about the unconventional reason he was chosen for his breakthrough role in the 2004 romantic drama “The Notebook.” According to Gosling, director Nick Cassavetes was drawn to him precisely because he lacked the conventional qualities of a leading man.
In Gosling’s own words, Cassavetes “straight up told me: ‘The fact that you have no natural leading man qualities is why I want you to be my leading man.'” This revelation sheds light on the casting process and challenges the traditional notions of what makes a leading actor.
Breaking Stereotypes with Unconventional Casting
This wasn’t the first instance where Gosling’s atypical appearance played a role in his casting. In the 2001 film “The Believer,” he portrayed a Jewish man who becomes a Neo-Nazi. Gosling shared that director Henry Bean believed he was the perfect fit for the role precisely because he didn’t conform to the typical expectations.
Gosling’s ability to break stereotypes and defy conventional casting choices showcases his versatility as an actor. Despite not necessarily looking the part, he managed to deliver powerful performances that garnered critical acclaim.
Unfazed by Criticism for Playing Ken in ‘Barbie’ Movie
Gosling’s ability to embrace unconventional roles may explain his indifference to recent criticism surrounding his casting as Ken in the upcoming “Barbie” movie. Despite some fans expressing concerns about his age, the 42-year-old actor remains unfazed.
Addressing the backlash, Gosling humorously stated, “if people don’t want to play with my Ken, there are many other Kens to play with.”
He pointed out that Mattel, the company behind Barbie, has always offered various versions of Ken dolls, and in the movie, other actors like John Cena, Simu Liu, Scott Evans, Ncuti Gatwa, and Kingsley Ben-Adir portray different iterations of the iconic character.
Furthermore, Gosling emphasized that Barbie is the central focus of the brand, and Ken has often played a supporting role.
He added, “Most people never cared about Ken until now.”
His nonchalant response highlights his ability to handle criticism with grace and humor.
FAQs
1. Why was Ryan Gosling cast in ‘The Notebook’?
Director Nick Cassavetes chose Gosling for the lead role in “The Notebook” precisely because he felt Gosling lacked the typical qualities of a leading man, which added an unconventional element to the character.
2. How did Ryan Gosling break stereotypes in casting?
Gosling’s unconventional appearance and ability to defy traditional expectations enabled him to portray diverse characters. His role as a Jewish man turned Neo-Nazi in “The Believer” showcased his ability to challenge stereotypes and deliver compelling performances.
3. Why is there criticism surrounding Ryan Gosling’s casting as Ken in the ‘Barbie’ movie?
Some fans have expressed concerns about Gosling’s age, claiming he looks too old to portray Ken. However, Gosling remains unfazed, highlighting that Mattel has always offered various versions of Ken dolls and emphasizing that Ken has historically played a supporting role to Barbie.
“If people don’t want to play with my Ken, there are many other Kens to play with.”
“Most people never cared about Ken until now.”
Gosling’s lighthearted response reflects his humorous approach to the criticism surrounding his casting decision.
Source: HuffPost
