Ryan Reynolds has continuously showcased Vancouver’s wonderous culture and beautiful landscapes through his films. By doing this, he contributes to a growing appreciation for the city beyond its use as a backdrop posing as another city. Reynolds has used VanCity as a filming location and intertwined it with his famously devilish characters, “Deadpool” and “Definitely, Maybe.”
Through “Deadpool,” Reynolds plays a yapping antihero, Wade Wilson, and in the series of films, the setting in Vancouver adds a particular groove to the story. The filmmakers took advantage of the city’s different architecture and urban landscapes, creating a vibrant yet rough-looking backdrop that portrays the characters and the film’s tone throughout the series. Locations like the Vancouver Art Gallery and Gaston were used as major spots to create those movie magic elements we see in the film. Following, the setting and scenery used Ryan’s Canadian like humour mixed with the breaking of fourth wall character really created a one on one feel with the audience which made it even more spectacular and it also invited the audience to see the cities culture.
Looking beyond the physical spaces, Vancouver’s cultural diversity is also found in the characters and narratives he chooses to promote. In one of my personal rom-com’s “Definitley,Maybe” the film shows themes of love and identity. In this film there are a lot of different neighbourhoods used that reflect on some of the suburban areas in Vancouver that really give off a sense of comfort and nostalgia. It also showed how many different cultures and identities Vancouver holds.
Furthermore, Reynolds is not shy about showing his love and appreciation for this city on and off screen. He uses his platform constantly to support local causes and support the community. His involvement with the food bank and other charities and initiatives makes this city no stranger nor forgotten by Reynolds. He gives Vancouverites a sense of pride when he gives the city a shoutout, and we are always here for it. Maybe when he’s not supporting his Ottawa Senators, but regardless, he’ll always be welcomed back with open arms.
Overall, Ryan Reynolds’s efforts to promote Vancouver through his films are a gem and will always be appreciated. His utilization of this city’s culture and scenic beauty by incorporating landmarks and diverse narratives is so great to see. Not only does he entertain, but he also educates and gives his audiences a taste of what life is like on our West side.