Ryan Reynolds, widely recognized for his role as Deadpool in Marvel films, has also amassed significant box office success through his performances in live-action movies outside the superhero genre. His ability to navigate thrilling action and heartfelt comedy reveals why Ryan Reynolds highest-grossing films extend well beyond Marvel’s reach, captivating global audiences with diverse characters and stories.
Top Five Live-Action Films by Box Office Revenue Featuring Ryan Reynolds
This ranking excludes Reynolds’ animated or voice roles, such as Detective Pikachu, focusing solely on his live-action performances. The list begins with a suspenseful thriller featuring a young CIA operative and unfolds through comedic and action-packed stories emphasizing Reynolds’ versatility.
1. The Hitman’s Bodyguard (2017)
Reynolds stars as Matt Weston, a rookie CIA agent assigned to protect a dangerous fugitive. The plot intensifies when their safe house is attacked by deadly forces, testing Weston’s courage and skills. This action thriller combines humor and tension, highlighted by Reynolds’ energetic performance as the protective operative caught in a high-stakes mission.
2. Green Lantern (2011)
Playing Hal Jordan, Reynolds steps into the role of the titular superhero who must master a powerful ring to battle cosmic threats. As a test pilot turned member of the Green Lantern Corps, he discovers the responsibilities behind his newfound powers. Despite mixed reviews, the film remains one of Reynolds’ significant box office ventures outside of Marvel.
3. The Proposal (2009)
This romantic comedy features Ryan Reynolds as Andrew Paxton, a loyal assistant who agrees to a fake marriage with his boss, a high-powered book editor facing deportation to Canada. Their arrangement unexpectedly blooms into romance, delivering a mix of humor and heartfelt moments, and showcasing Reynolds’ charm in lighter, character-driven roles.
4. Free Guy (2021)
In this innovative comedy, Reynolds plays Guy, a cheerful non-player character (NPC) in a video game who gains self-awareness. Realizing his programmed existence, Guy decides to take control and become the hero of his own story, blending action and humor in a fresh setting while displaying Reynolds’ ability to lead a compelling and imaginative narrative.
5. Secret in Their Eyes (2015)
Although often less highlighted, one of Reynolds’ intense roles involves a story centered around a gifted young detective navigating dangerous secrets and illusions. His character confronts hidden conspiracies that threaten to unravel the truth, adding a darker, suspenseful layer to his filmography outside Marvel’s superhero universe.
The Impact of Non-Marvel Ventures on Ryan Reynolds’ Career
While Ryan Reynolds remains strongly identified with Marvel Studios, particularly for his role alongside Hugh Jackman in Deadpool and Wolverine films that generated over $1.3 billion worldwide, his non-Marvel projects prove his broad appeal. These films demonstrate his capability to engage audiences across genres, from suspenseful thrillers and superhero tales to romcoms and innovative comedies.
As fans anticipate his upcoming roles, the success of his highest-grossing non-Marvel films underscores his industry versatility and lasting box office influence. These projects shape Reynolds’ reputation beyond any single franchise, fueling speculation about his future career directions outside the superhero realm.
