# The Nice Guys Reaches Number One on Streaming Ten Years Later Shane Black's 2016 crime comedy finds a massive new audience on digital platforms. - **Source:** [Collider](https://collider.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-06 - **Topic:** [entertainment](https://brifing.si/c/entertainment) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/322411d5-2dd7-4373-bc4e-0a79933fb864 ## Unexpected Streaming Success The 2016 crime comedy-thriller The Nice Guys has achieved a surprising milestone by reaching the number one spot on Apple TV. Despite failing to make a significant financial impact during its original theatrical release, the film has successfully cultivated a devoted following through word of mouth over the past decade. ## Theatrical Performance Struggles Upon its initial release, the film struggled to find an audience, earning only 71 million dollars against a 50 million dollar production budget. When factoring in the additional costs of marketing and global distribution, the financial returns were considered discouraging, leading many to overlook the project during its primary theatrical run. ## Director Shane Black's Vision Written and directed by Shane Black, the film transports viewers to 1970s Los Angeles. Black, known for his work on Iron Man 3 and Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, crafted a narrative that blends detective noir, buddy comedy, and action, offering a refreshing alternative to the franchise-heavy landscape of modern cinema. ## Dynamic Lead Performances The film relies heavily on the contrasting acting styles of Russell Crowe and Ryan Gosling. Crowe portrays the physically imposing Jackson Healy, while Gosling leans into his comedic range as the struggling Holland March. Their chemistry serves as the central pillar that elevates the movie beyond standard genre tropes and clichés. ## Physical Comedy and Timing Ryan Gosling delivers one of his most celebrated comedic performances, utilizing his talent for physical humor to portray the flawed Holland March. His impeccable timing during tense confrontations creates memorable scenes, while Crowe provides a dry, understated counterbalance that allows the comedic elements to land with greater impact for the audience. ## Character Depth and Growth Beyond the humor and explosive action, the film explores the organic development of a partnership between two men at their lowest points. Despite their constant insults and violent encounters, such as the scene where Healy breaks March's arm, the characters eventually discover a genuine need for one another's support and guidance. ## Critical and Cultural Legacy While the film underperformed financially, it garnered positive reviews that helped sustain its reputation over the last ten years. Viewers are now discovering the inventive action sequences and razor-sharp dialogue that critics praised upon release, proving that a film's quality can eventually overcome its initial lack of commercial box office success. ## The Value of Second Chances The resurgence of The Nice Guys serves as a reminder that cult classics often require time to find their intended audience. Although fans remain hopeful for a potential sequel, the film stands as a complete, self-contained story that demonstrates how digital streaming can provide a vital second chance for overlooked cinematic works. ## Sources covering this story - https://collider.com/russell-crowe-the-nice-guys-streaming-apple-tv-number-one/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._