Ryan Reynolds Stands Proud of His Canadian Identity

During an engaging conversation at the Toronto Film Festival, Hollywood star Ryan Reynolds passionately reaffirmed his Canadian roots amidst cultural clashes in the entertainment industry. "I’m not MAGA. I’m not extreme anything," he declared, emphasizing his desire for unity over divisiveness. He criticized identity politics for fostering an "us vs them" mentality, acknowledging the need for belief systems to reflect broader experiences.

From Vancouver to Hollywood: The Collaborator's Journey

Reynolds attributed much of his collaborative spirit to his upbringing in Vancouver and his experience with improv comedy. He believes that these influences taught him to prioritize learning on set over a cutthroat mentality. "Canada was like a third parent to me. The industry can be harsh, and it’s crucial to maintain perspective," he explained.

Remembering John Candy: A Tribute to the Late Comedy Legend

The event marked the world premiere of his heartfelt documentary, "John Candy: I Like Me," directed by Colin Hanks. Reflecting on the late comedic giant, Reynolds expressed sadness over Candy's struggles with mental health, explaining how his desire to please others often prevented him from addressing his own issues. "John was on the cusp of discussing his mental health, but as a people pleaser, he felt the need to shield others from his burdens," Reynolds shared.

The Influence of SCTV on a Young Ryan Reynolds

A long-time admirer of John Candy, Reynolds reminisced about watching "SCTV" and noted the brilliance of its sketch comedy, despite some occasional misses. "Those moments of experimentation and imperfection were what made it special," he mused, highlighting the importance of taking risks in comedy.

The Road to Stardom: Lessons from Early Acting Experiences

Reynolds began his acting career in Canada with the teen series "Fifteen," where he learned important lessons about discipline and professionalism. He chuckled about his early days, joking that he slipped through without any recognition, claiming, "I don’t even think the editor saw the show!"

Navigating Injustice: A Canadian's Perspective

Discussing the Canadian mindset, Reynolds noted that his fellow Canadians share a strong dedication to justice and equality. "When faced with injustice, I often feel upset or ashamed for not taking action sooner. This sense helps us stay productive and motivated," he reflected.

The Moment That Changed His Career

Reynolds recounted a pivotal moment on the sitcom "Two Guys, A Girl and a Pizza Place" when creator Danny Jacobson encouraged him not to shy away from the spotlight. "Take the f***ing stage!" Jacobson told him, and that advice transformed Reynolds’ approach to acting, allowing him to step into a lead role with confidence.

Taking Control: The Leap into Production

His role in "Green Lantern" marked a shift in Reynolds’ career, pushing him to embrace risk-taking and ultimately leading him to produce "Deadpool," a groundbreaking R-rated superhero film. "Ownership taught me the importance of constraint; too much time and money can stifle creativity," he asserted.

Creating Art that Resonates

Reynolds emphasized that the key to successful filmmaking lies in genuine connection with viewers. "You don’t need astronomical budgets to create something meaningful. At the end of the day, it’s about what resonates, not the superpowers," he remarked.

Final Thoughts: Laughing and Creating from the Heart

As he continues to write, Reynolds strives for authenticity, believing that if something makes him laugh or speaks to him, it will likely resonate with others too. The Toronto Film Festival runs until September 14th, showcasing talent and stories that bridge the gap between cultures.