21st July 2023, Mumbai: As reviews for the film Barbie pour in, one glaring irony shines through – Ryan Gosling, known for playing supporting roles, has taken center stage. Portraying the blonde-haired “stereotypical Ken” amid a myriad of Kens in Barbie Land, Gosling has garnered some of the best reviews of his career. His full-throttle transformation, impeccable comic delivery, riotous song and dance numbers, and commitment to the role have left critics in awe. Kirsten Acuna from Insider praised the entire cast, but it’s Gosling who truly stands out, while Beth Webb from Empire Magazine described his performance as breathtaking.
Gosling’s Immersion into the Role
Ryan Gosling didn’t just portray Ken on screen; He has completely embraced the character off screen as well. In an interview, he expresses excitement about the role, mentioning that “Ken-Ergy” Gosling’s hilarious and pun-filled interview about the film’s release made fans love him even more.
A Twist on the Himbo Icon
Gosling’s outstanding performance is complemented by Gerwig and Baumbach’s brilliant writing. In a refreshing twist, the film sends Barbie and Ken to the ‘Real World,’ where Ken, usually portrayed as a simple, subservient partner, is given a much deeper and complex arc. He discovers his own insecurities and anxieties, goes rogue, and even leads a rebellion against Barbie Land’s established order. The result is a comedic yet introspective look at the iconic character.
The All-Singing, All-Dancing Ken
Drawing on his years as the Disney Mouseketeer child star, Gosling delivers a memorable and hilarious performance in the film. His interpretation of the slow rock song “I’m Just Ken”, a Bob Fosse-esque dance routine with the other Kens and exceptional talent for singing and dancing show the strength and charm necessary for Gosling’s role.
A Likeable and Vulnerable Character
Despite his deluded acts, Ken remains a character that is hard to hate. Gosling’s portrayal shows him as misguided, pitiable, and slightly pathetic as he grapples with his identity after being overshadowed by Barbie for years. Director Greta Gerwig commends Gosling for his open-heartedness in portraying Ken’s journey, which resonated with the male crew members on set.
A Revelatory Performance
Ryan Gosling’s portrayal of Ken in Barbie is a revelation for audiences. Known for playing brooding and troubled characters, Gosling’s comedic performance showcases his versatility as an actor. While he has demonstrated his talent in rom-coms and light entertainment before, his portrayal of Ken is a delightful surprise.
The Oscars and Comedy
With his performance in Barbie being one of the most outstanding comedic roles in recent memory, speculation has arisen about Gosling’s chances at the Academy Awards. However, history has shown that comedy performances often struggle against emotionally charged dramas and biopics when it comes to Oscar wins. Nevertheless, some critics have advocated for Gosling’s nomination and potential win, especially given the film’s remarkable popularity and success at the box office.
The Academy’s Seriousness and the Feminist-tilted Film
Some critics feel that Gosling’s performance deserves recognition, while others question his chances at the Oscars. The academy’s appetite for self-seriousness may prevent a brilliantly funny performance like Gosling’s from being accepted. In addition, since Barbie is considered a female-centric film, there may be skepticism about an award being given to a male actor for such a role.
A Versatile Actor Regardless of Awards
Despite uncertainty over Oscar chances, Ryan Gosling’s portrayal of Ken in Barbie solidified his status as one of Hollywood’s most versatile. Whether he wins an Oscar or not, his brilliant performance made a lasting impression on audiences and reflects his incredible performances as an actor.
Conclusion
Ryan Gosling’s star turn as Ken in Barbie has been a revelation for fans and critics alike. His dedication to the role, impeccable comic timing, and exceptional singing and dancing abilities have garnered widespread acclaim. While his chances at an Oscar win remain uncertain due to historical biases against comedic performances, there is no denying that Gosling’s portrayal of Ken has peoples’ heart.