Ryan Reynolds Takes a Chilling Departure From his Signature Style in ‘The Amityville Horror’

When Ryan Reynolds landed the role of ‘Deadpool’, it seemed like a match made in heaven. Well, maybe not so much in 2009’s ‘X-Men Origins: Wolverine’, where his character was largely silenced. However, the 2016 ‘Deadpool’ changed the game, allowing Reynolds to embody the character’s irreverent spirit fully. 

Reynolds has a knack for comedic roles, often portraying characters with similar beats, but in 2005, he took a surprising turn when he starred in ‘The Amityville Horror’. Unlike his usual comedic fare, this film delved into the chilling story of a family haunted by a gruesome past, and Reynolds played a character descending into madness, a departure from his usual repertoire.

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Ryan Reynolds began his career in television in the mid-’90s, gradually gaining prominence with roles in various shows. However, it was his role in the ABC sitcom ‘Two Guys, A Girl, and a Pizza Place’ that propelled him into the limelight. Reynolds solidified his status with comedic hits like Van Wilder, establishing himself as the quintessential sarcastic yet endearing smartass. Despite his comedic success, Reynolds ventured into horror with ‘The Amityville Horror’, a rare departure from his comedic roots.

‘The Amityville Horror’, based on true events, follows the harrowing tale of a family moving into a supposedly haunted house. Reynolds’ portrayal of George Lutz, a stepfather to the family, is a departure from his typical roles. While the film received mixed reviews, Reynolds’ performance was a standout, adding depth to a flawed movie. His portrayal of a loving family man descending into darkness showcased his versatility as an actor.

Director Andrew Douglas likened Reynolds’ performance to Jack Nicholson’s iconic role in ‘The Shining’, both portraying fathers succumbing to the malevolent forces of a possessed house. Reynolds’ portrayal of George Lutz, a character fundamentally good, adds complexity to his descent into madness. 

While Reynolds has predominantly stuck to comedic roles, his foray into horror with ‘The Amityville Horror’ hinted at his potential for intense performances, paving the way for future ventures into the genre.

– Farheen Ali