Ryan Reynolds Reflects on ‘Green Lantern’ Mistakes and Hints at New Ensemble Project
At the 2025 Time 100 Summit, Ryan Reynolds spoke candidly about his path from superhero fame to creative entrepreneurship and the surprising lessons he discovered along the way.
Reynolds discussed how his acting career developed into a dominant production brand through his studio, Maximum Effort, in an interview with Time journalist Eliana Dockterman on the “Business of Creativity” panel. ‘Deadpool’, ‘Free Guy’, ‘Shotgun Wedding’, and the more recent ‘IF’ are among the popular films that the studio has supported.
Reynolds said that he learned more from the 2011 movie ‘Green Lantern’ than is frequently acknowledged when he reflected on one of his previous (and less successful) superhero appearances. He claimed the experience changed his perspective on storytelling, even if it was a commercial and critical flop. Among his most important lessons learned? Character, not show, is what gives that real effect. Reynolds recalled saying that a straightforward, realistic dialogue between characters could be just as impactful — and cost nothing at all — even though enormous resources were being put into visual effects.
Image Courtesy: Ryan Reynolds/ Instagram
Beyond any on-screen ability, he described self-awareness as his greatest strength and discussed its significance in his work. He claimed that his creative choices and business endeavours have been directed by this grounded sense of self.
Reynolds’ approach to filmmaking has changed significantly as a result of his studio, Maximum Effort, which cleverly and unorthodoxly combines humour, heart, and marketing. The most recent instance of that achievement? ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’, which debuted in theatres in July 2024, is currently the highest-grossing R-rated movie ever.
Image Courtesy: Reddit
Reynolds didn’t mince words when questioned about the future of his favourite Deadpool character, especially if he would appear in the next Avengers movie. After stating that there is undoubtedly a probability, he turned to consider how very personal Deadpool movies were. He also disclosed that the first was meant to serve as a metaphor for Disney’s purchase of Fox. He presented a lot of tale concepts throughout the years, constantly searching for that one cinematic moment that makes the audience scream. He wants to continue pursuing it, even if it means returning to a supporting position.
Reynolds teasingly mentioned that he is now working on a new ensemble piece that he is writing himself as the panel came to a close. He is obviously not slowing down anytime soon, even though specifics are being kept under wraps.
–Farheen Ali
