Happy Tuesday, dear readers! Each week, we’ll rank the top 10 films in a specific category. While we aim to tie these lists to big releases, that won’t always be the case. Our goal? For you to enjoy, share your own lists, and join in on a lively, friendly debate. This is an interactive space to build community here at The Contending.
No fancy intros, no long essays – just a category and a list. Sound good?
With awards season in our rearview mirror, it feels like a good time to shift the focus back to the stars currently driving people to theaters. Ryan Gosling returns to the big screen with Project Hail Mary, and it’s a really fun ride. What surprised me most is just how sweet and charming it is. Gosling is right in his wheelhouse here, charismatic, funny, and easy to root for, and the film plays like the kind of crowd-pleaser we don’t get enough of anymore. The fact that it’s connecting with audiences in a big way is great to see, and it already has many in the industry calling it the first awards contender of 2026.
Gosling is one of my favorite actors of this century, and a big part of that is how unpredictable his choices can be. He’s a three-time Oscar nominee for Half Nelson, La La Land, and Barbie, but what stands out even more than his eclectic role choice is his range. He can go from quiet and internal to full-blown movie star charisma without it ever feeling forced. From dark dramas to romantic comedies to acting opposite a space rock, his range feels almost limitless.
To celebrate one of the most compelling actors working today, here are Ryan Gosling’s 10 best performances.
10. Blade Runner 2049 (K, 2017)
9. Project Hail Mary (Ryland Grace, 2026)
8. Barbie (Ken, 2023)
7. Lars and the Real Girl (Lars Lindstrom, 2007)
6. First Man (Neil Armstrong, 2018)
5. The Place Beyond the Pines (Luke Glanton, 2012)
4. Blue Valentine (Dean Pereira, 2010)
3. Half Nelson (Dan Dunne, 2006)
2. La La Land (Sebastian Wilder, 2016)
1. Drive (Driver, 2011)
Great list
Thanks, Michael