THE UNBEARABLE WEIGHT OF MASSIVE TALENT

Nic Cage stars as Nic Cage in this overlooked comeback comedy. Not that he went anywhere.

Nicolas Cage has become somewhat of a meme king and this film proves once and for all he is in on the joke. In this highly stylized, refreshingly original caper comedy Cage is at his pathological, self-parodying best. It’s a high camp metatheatrical romp through the ego of one of Hollywood’s most versatile performers. And it’s one helluva good time.

Just when you think you’ve got this movie figured out, it surprises with an unexpected turn adding layer upon layer of complexity while maintaining an easy, light action comedy vibe. It’s cleverly plotted and beautifully shot, it’s hard to understand why it was a flop when it was released in theaters. It’s also hard to understand how the screen can even contain the combined charisma and charm of Cage and costar, the moment himself, Pedro Pascal.

There’s so much movie star magnetism on display you couldn’t look away if you wanted to. The two are obviously having the time of their lives, the bromantic chemistry is positively off the charts. And of course when the time finally arrives, when Cage takes on his most fully unhinged, most Nic Cagiest form, it is indeed glorious. It’s truly a career best performance for the acclaimed actor.

The rest of the cast is filled with awesome supporting and cameo appearances. Neil Patrick Harris pops up as a typically sleazy Hollywood agent. Irish actress Sharon Horgan is wonderful as Cage’s over the shit onscreen wife and Tiffany Haddish is great but to give away her role would spoil too much. Same with Demi Moore but she is looking stunning in a blink and you’ll miss it bit part.

This film has wide appeal, something I think the whole family could even enjoy. Maybe a little over the head of younger kids but tweens and teens would dig it. It’s a unique action adventure with some absolutely laugh out loud moments and incredible performances from two of Hollywood’s most lovable legends. 10/10 would recommend.

Published by CliffyTee

I’m a theatre actor, director & scholar and a huge fan of films of every genre.

Leave a comment

Design a site like this with WordPress.com
Get started