“He should be doing more serious films”: Oscar-Winning Director Blasts Ryan Gosling for Wasting His Talent on Films Like Barbie That’s ‘Infantilizing’ Hollywood

Legendary director Oliver Stone recently ignited controversy by blasting Ryan Gosling’s decision to star in the upcoming Barbie film. In a scathing interview from 2023, the Oscar-winning filmmaker argued that Gosling was “wasting his time” by participating in what Stone sees as the “infantilization” of Hollywood. He implored the respected actor to focus on more substantive roles rather than blockbuster spectacle and escapist fantasies.

Stone specifically called out the Fast and Furious, Marvel, and now Barbie franchises as indicative of the industry’s regression into purely juvenile entertainment. According to Stone, Gosling should choose critical and strong roles that will make his career profile stronger. 

Is Ryan Gosling Wasting Talent with “Infantile” Films?

As per Deadline, Oliver Stone talked about Ryan Gosling’s Barbie role. He said: 

“Ryan Gosling is wasting his time if he’s doing that sh** for money… He should be doing more serious films. He shouldn’t be a part of this infantilization of Hollywood.”

Stone went on to criticize the prevalence of fantasy and action blockbusters dominating the industry. He dismissed franchises like Fast and Furious and Marvel as overly reliant on spectacle.

The Oscar-winning director argued stars like Gosling have a responsibility to make meaningful films that engage with real issues. He implied lighthearted fare like Barbie represents a form of regressive escapism unworthy of Gosling’s talents.

Also Read: “I find that annoying as hell”: Steve Carell Shares the Sweetest Ryan Gosling Story

What Accounts for Oliver Stone’s Harsh Criticism?

As an acclaimed director behind films like Platoon, Born on the Fourth of July, and JFK, Stone has always valued social commentary and political engagement in his work.

He seems to hold similar expectations for today’s major stars like Gosling. While they have found success in serious dramas, Stone believes they shouldn’t settle for formulaic blockbusters and instead use their clout to tackle substantive themes.

This likely explains his harsh criticism over Gosling’s decision to star in the comedic Barbie film, which he sees as a step backward in the actor’s career.

Also Read: Ryan Gosling Reveals Subpar Living Conditions Made Him Feel “Tired All the Time” as a Child Actor Due To 1 Tragic Factor

How Will Ryan Gosling Respond to Oliver Stone’s Comments?

It remains to be seen whether Stone’s blunt assessment will elicit any response from Gosling himself. The actor has yet to react publicly to Stone’s criticism.

Gosling may choose to shrug off the remarks as the uncompromising perspective of an acclaimed director generations removed from his own career. After all, Gosling has balanced weighty roles in films like Half Nelson and Blue Valentine with more mainstream fare like Crazy, Stupid, Love and Blade Runner 2049.

Also Read: Oliver Stone Warns Ryan Gosling to Stay Away From “Sh*t” Movies Like Barbie

Or perhaps Stone’s provocative comments will inspire Gosling to re-examine the trajectory of his filmography. Either way, the veteran director has sparked fresh debate about the role major stars play in Hollywood’s output. Barbie was a major success in the history of cinema all over the world. 

Barbie is streaming now on HBO Max.