From The Notebook to Drive, these are the 15 best Ryan Gosling movies ranked as the actor continues to define a generation of film.
Whether he’s wooing audiences in The Notebook or redefining sci-fi cool in Blade Runner 2049, Ryan Gosling has carved out one of the most compelling careers in modern Hollywood. With undeniable charm, emotional range, and a fearless approach to genre, the Canadian actor has proven time and again that he’s more than just a pretty face.
Now, with major upcoming roles in Project Hail Mary and the Star Wars: Starfighter film, Gosling’s career is still accelerating. But before he takes audiences to the stars, it’s time to look back at his incredible filmography. From award-winning dramas to overlooked cult classics, these are the 15 best Ryan Gosling movies—ranked.
15. The Fall Guy
Though it didn’t smash the box office as expected, this 2024 action-comedy showcased Ryan Gosling‘s comedic chops and paid tribute to Hollywood’s unsung stunt performers. Co-starring Emily Blunt, the film found a wider audience after landing on streaming.
14. The Ides of March
In this political thriller, Ryan Gosling plays an idealistic strategist entangled in a world of power and betrayal. Directed by and co-starring George Clooney, it’s a sleek, character-driven drama that still resonates.
13. The Notebook
The film that launched Ryan Gosling into mainstream stardom, this 2004 romantic epic opposite Rachel McAdams remains iconic. Love it or not, there’s no denying its cultural impact.
12. Blue Valentine
This raw, emotionally devastating indie drama revealed Ryan Gosling’s fearless vulnerability alongside Michelle Williams. A heartbreaking portrait of love and loss.
11. Crazy Stupid Love
A romantic comedy that doubles as a sharp commentary on relationships. Ryan Gosling shines as the suave Jacob, showing chemistry with both Steve Carell and Emma Stone.
10. The Believer
One of Ryan Gosling’s earliest and most controversial roles, he plays a Jewish neo-Nazi in this provocative 2001 indie. It’s a chilling performance that marked him as a serious talent.
9. Half Nelson
As a drug-addicted teacher trying to guide a student, Ryan Gosling earned his first Oscar nomination. A gritty, heartfelt performance that remains one of his most powerful.
8. First Man
Reuniting with La La Land director Damien Chazelle, Ryan Gosling delivers a grounded, introspective take on astronaut Neil Armstrong in this understated biopic.
7. Lars and the Real Girl
Only Ryan Gosling could make a romance with a life-sized doll this tender. This quirky dramedy explores grief, family, and acceptance in unexpectedly touching ways.
6. The Big Short
As smug narrator and finance shark Jared Vennett, Ryan Gosling brings both humor and edge to this sharp critique of the 2008 financial collapse.
5. Barbie
In one of his most talked-about performances, Ryan Gosling redefined the role of Ken with hilarious depth and an unforgettable musical number. He wasn’t just Ken—he was the Ken.
4. The Nice Guys
A criminally underrated buddy comedy with Russell Crowe, Ryan Gosling’s slapstick timing and detective charm made this ’70s-set romp a cult classic.
3. La La Land
A modern musical masterpiece. Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone dazzle as struggling artists in love, delivering unforgettable performances and heart-wrenching moments.
2. Blade Runner 2049
A moody, cerebral sci-fi epic that cemented Ryan Gosling as a modern leading man. His performance as Officer K is as haunting as the film’s stunning visuals.
1. Drive
Stylish, violent, and cool to its core, Drive is peak Ryan Gosling. As the mysterious stuntman-turned-getaway driver, he delivers a career-defining performance in the ultimate neo-noir thrill ride.
From tortured lovers to reluctant heroes, Ryan Gosling continues to shape cinema in his image—charming, complex, and completely unforgettable.
