Ryan Gosling’s portrayal of Ken in Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie” was highly anticipated, but the actor initially felt reluctant about taking on the role. In a recent Variety profile, Gosling candidly revealed that he found the process of preparing for and accepting the role to be quite harrowing. Scheduling conflicts and concerns about embodying a character that was once a pop culture punchline made him question his involvement.
Embracing the Challenge
Gosling admitted that Ken was the hardest role he had ever played, partly due to the lack of substantial material available for his character. However, he eventually came around to the idea and saw it as an opportunity to push his boundaries. He compared it to a high-wire act without a safety net, emphasizing the importance of not messing up such an iconic movie. Determined to exceed his own expectations, he embarked on a journey to discover who Ken really was.
Drawing from his own experiences as a child performer, Gosling found inspiration for his portrayal of Ken. Memories of singing at weddings in search of validation resonated with him and added depth to his understanding of the character. He also recalled moments of doubt when he questioned his involvement in the film. Gosling revealed that his wife, Eva Mendes, played a crucial role in guiding him, reminding him to focus on making it all about Barbie.
For Gosling, every take on set became an opportunity to catch Barbie’s attention. He poured his heart and soul into the role, fully committed to standing out and leaving a lasting impression. The determination to go beyond his own capabilities drove him to deliver a performance that would make an impact.
Oscar Recognition and Controversy
As the upcoming Oscars approach, the film industry eagerly awaits the extent to which “Barbie” will be recognized. Despite multiple nominations in various categories, some argue that the film has been overlooked by the Academy. Gosling, who was nominated for Best Supporting Actor, publicly criticized the omissions of Margot Robbie for Best Actress and Greta Gerwig for Best Director. The controversy surrounding the nominations raises questions about the Academy’s recognition of groundbreaking films.
The Legacy of “Barbie”
While the final outcome at the Oscars remains to be seen, “Barbie” has already left its mark. It was named GameSpot’s best movie of 2023, solidifying its impact on audiences and the industry. The journey of Ryan Gosling’s Ken symbolizes the challenges and triumphs that come with taking on iconic roles, pushing boundaries, and redefining characters previously relegated to the realms of pop culture punchlines.
Ryan Gosling’s initial hesitations and subsequent embrace of the role of Ken in “Barbie” shed light on the personal journey an actor takes when faced with daunting challenges. Drawing from his own experiences and supported by his wife, Gosling transformed his portrayal of Ken into an opportunity to showcase his talents and defy expectations. As the audience eagerly awaits the outcome at the Oscars, the legacy of “Barbie” continues to unfold, leaving an indelible impression on the film industry.
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