If I had to put a picture of someone next to the dictionary definition of “lovable rogue”, that someone would be Ryan Reynolds. The former rom-com heartthrob has really developed over the years from what many would consider “just another pretty face”, to what I’d call a pretty face you really wanted to punch (lovingly, of course). He toes the line between infuriating and hilarious so well that I find it hard to believe that he doesn’t practice everything he says in front of a mirror before leaving the house.
But today, we’re not going to talk about how much I like Ryan Reynolds. That’s because today, the man most well-known for being Blake Lively’s husband, just bought an ownership stake in Mint Mobile, an MVNO that’s most well-known for offering carrier-grade service for a fraction of the cost. Damn it, look at him looking out for the little guy.
If you’re a Malaysian and are unfamiliar with the American wireless company Mint Mobile, I don’t blame you. I wasn’t either, but looking at what they’re trying to do, it’s hard not to root for them–at least, a little. I’m all for companies that strive to provide quality service at an affordable price point, and in a world where the average American is paying USD65 (~RM272) per month for wireless connectivity, Mint Mobile has plans that start from USD15/month.
“It’s a bit unconventional which is why I like it,” said the Detective Pikachu star.
“Celebrities generally invest in high-end products like skincare brands or delicious gin companies. Yet Mint is making wireless way more affordable at a time when the average American is paying 65 dollars a month. I’m excited to champion a more practical approach to the most essential technology.”
Before you erupt in the comments section about how this isn’t relevant to the Malaysia because this is an American company, let me tell you exactly why I think that even as a Malaysian, you should be excited: think of the ads.
Besides being both the best and worst iteration of Deadpool we’ve seen on the silver screen, Ryan Reynolds is also known for producing some of the most awesome ads I’ve ever seen. Remember that time he bought American gin-maker Aviation American Gin? Well, we got these gems from that:
Let’s not forget his feud with mortal-enemy-turned-best-friend Hugh Jackman which produced this work of art:
Oh and of course, while I thought Detective Pikachu was a decidedly average movie, I thoroughly enjoyed watching his process of not even changing his voice for the little yellow guy who lives in Ryme City in a briar patch or something:
And if he makes more of these ads for Mint Mobile, I mean, everyone’s a winner here, right? He’s already off to a great start with his Instagram announcement.
Ryan, if you’re reading this, I have a suggestion: what if you dyed your Deadpool suit Mint green and called yourself Datapool instead? You can PayPal me the royalties later.