Ryan Reynolds talked with The Star Ledger via phone interview during a recent press day for
Buried. Inevitably the topics of
Deadpool and
The Green Lantern came up. Reynolds had a couple of new things to say on the subjects.
I thought it was interesting because the kidnappers were portrayed as people who are victims, too.
I don't personally believe that villains exist. Villains are just a way of saying that somebody has an opposing conviction.
What about Deadpool?
It's tough. It's very tricky to throw a morally flexible character onto the screen and have an audience empathize. It's always an exercise in restraint.
Did some of the physical acting skills from this performance carry over and were you able to use them in "Green Lantern?"
I don't think so. There was a real polarization in the films, going from one that's contained to one that is wide open, set partially in space. My very worst day on "Green Lantern" was nowhere near as difficult as my finest day on "Buried."
What really appealed to you about the character of Green Lantern?
The character is a classic action hero, and there's an arc. Here's a guy who begins the journey very cocky and arrogant. When he's bestowed this supernatural gift, he is humbled by it. I like that trajectory. Usually, it's the opposite way.
Do you draw a parallel between the rise of superhero movies and the decline of society and the economy?
I don't think so. I think there's escapist moviemaking, and we want to be captivated and taken away. If it's done right, you can craft an incredible film. There have been superhero films that I think are brilliant pieces of art. I love "Iron Man," I love "Batman."
It's good to see great actors in these films. I remember Adam West as "Batman."
Hey, he set the table.