Ranking our top 3 favorite Kyle Gallner movies

As a dedicated cinephile who values authenticity and passion over fame and fortune, I have been thoroughly captivated by Kyle Gallner‘s extraordinary acting journey. From his humble beginnings as a teenage actor gracing our screens in shows like Veronica Mars and Smallville, to his chilling portrayals of the timid goth kid in horror classics like Jennifer’s Body and A Nightmare on Elm Street, Gallner has consistently demonstrated an uncanny ability to breathe life into each character he embodies.

As a dedicated film enthusiast and aspiring actor, I’ve come to realize that an acting career can be a challenging and winding path. For some, success might elude them until later in their journey, while others may strike gold early, only to face the challenge of sustaining that peak performance. Many find themselves typecast, struggling to break free from preconceived roles. However, there are actors who aren’t defined by box office numbers and fame. Instead, they embrace acting as a passion, choosing projects that resonate with them personally. These artists promote their movies not just for the studios, but because they genuinely want to share these stories with fellow film lovers. In today’s competitive landscape, Kyle Gallner is one such actor who embodies this spirit of authenticity and love for the craft.

Since his teenage years, Gallner has been actively involved in acting. He made his debut with recurring roles in shows such as Veronica Mars, Smallville, and CSI: NY, and also appeared in films like Wet Hot American Summer and Wes Craven’s Red Eye. In movies like Jennifer’s Body (2009) and the 2010 remake of A Nightmare on Elm Street, he portrayed the shy goth character.

In a style that left a lasting impression on many horror enthusiasts, when he appeared in movies, it was challenging not to picture the frightened teenager. However, Gallner underwent a transformation starting in the mid-2010s, particularly with films like “Band of Robbers,” which made him a must-see figure whenever his name graced the cast list of an upcoming production.

Through his choice to play characters in movies with close-knit scenarios and fewer actors, Gallner’s performances have been versatile yet distinctively his own. One of Gallner’s most impressive recent works is the 2020 film “Dinner in America,” a gritty, punk-rock remake of “Napoleon Dynamite.” In this movie, he masterfully sets the tone with his deliberate, measured delivery that makes every word resonate powerfully on screen.

Gallner skillfully portrays characters that are both threatening and compassionate. One of his greatest talents lies in his knack for generating convincing camaraderie with his fellow actors. In productions such as the 2023 film “Mother, May I?“, which blurs the line between stage play and cinema, Gallner exhibits a capacity to display vulnerability that complements his intense performances.

1. Smile (2022)

Among the more successful recent horror films, one that stands out is the 2022 release titled “Smile“. Originating from a short film written and directed by Parker Finn, this movie falls under the category of psychological horror with supernatural elements. The story revolves around an enigmatic entity that manifests itself to its victims as someone familiar or a stranger who sport an unsettling, unnatural grin. In the role of Joel, a police officer, we find himself in a challenging position, torn between assisting an old flame and discerning whether he’s dealing with mental health issues or a genuine supernatural force.

For some ardent horror enthusiasts, Gallner’s brief appearance in 2022’s “Scream” and “Smile” was a long-awaited sighting after nearly a decade. Transforming from the timid high schooler to a mustached detective initially seemed incongruous, but Gallner’s acting performance effectively dispelled any lingering perceptions of softness or vulnerability. Apart from his impressive performance in “Dinner in America,” “Smile” serves as an excellent introduction before delving into his extensive film career.

2. The Passenger (2023)

2023 saw a standout, unexpectedly chilling performance in the film “The Passenger”. What sets the horror genre apart from others is that it doesn’t necessarily require monsters or ghosts. Instead, the most terrifying entities often turn out to be human beings. In this instance, “The Passenger” skillfully blends elements of horror and thriller, featuring an opening scene that has left a lasting impression in recent movie history.

In this movie, Gallner portrays Benson, a quick-service restaurant employee who unexpectedly alters both his life and that of his colleague Randy during an ordinary morning. Benson subsequently leads Randy on a road trip, visiting different locations to face his past demons. One of the film’s standout aspects is Gallner’s skill in seamlessly transitioning between menacing and compassionate character traits.

The interactions between Gallner and Berchtold subtly create an atmosphere of foreboding and tension in the movie as they methodically review Randy’s past. Despite its straightforward plot, The Passenger masterfully uncovers the intricacies of its characters. Among these complexities, Gallner delivers a standout performance.

3. Strange Darling (2024)

2024’s critically acclaimed movie “Strange Darling,” directed by JT Mollner, features captivating performances by Gallner and Willa Fitzgerald. This film tells the story of the last days and heinous acts of a serial killer known as The Lady, portrayed by Fitzgerald, and her confrontation with the Demon, played by Gallner. The movie is structured in six chapters, unfolding non-chronologically, plunging viewers directly into the action without excessive explanation. It’s an immersive experience that lets you join Gallner and Fitzgerald on this thrilling journey.

Gallner shared with Forbes about Strange Darling, ‘For me, the joy of going to the movies lies in having a collective experience.’ He explained that there are instances when the atmosphere becomes electric, as everyone collectively gasps, jumps, laughs, or cheers. In his view, attending a movie is an extraordinary event, and he believes this film excels at enhancing that unique experience.

Acting outside the norm for most movie stars, Gallner consistently strives to expand beyond conventional late-night talk show and “Hot Ones” appearances to market his films by opting for wide releases. Gallner doesn’t fit the mold of a typical Hollywood actor; instead, he has built a unique connection with audiences who are eager to watch his movies across various genres. Gallner has also managed to gain respect within the horror community, ensuring that any future projects he takes on will be highly anticipated due to his involvement alone. Among these, the film “Strange Darling” has helped build this level of anticipation.

2024-10-05 19:25