It is only a mild exaggeration to say that only Nicolas Cage could star in The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent — this is a picture that simply would not work if someone else was the lead, as not only is the entire movie an Affectionate Parody of Nic Cage's long and diverse career, but it relies on his broad range and unique style to really click.
Fortunately for the rest of us, Cage is a great sport about the movie, and plays himself with a deft balance of Large Ham, Self-Deprecation, and The Comically Serious. This results in a portrayal that is simultaneously straight enough to pull viewers into the story, but silly enough for them to realize that he's not taking any of the jabs to himself seriously. Nic is fully at peace with his quirky (real-life) moviemaking reputation, and this movie is his way of inviting us all to share in the fun. In this endeavor, Cage is perfectly paired with Pedro Pascal, who's also clearly enjoying himself playing the lifelong FanboySqueeing over his idol — their Bromantic Comedy chemistry is the biggest appeal of this movie, eclipsing even the slapstick antics and action sequences.
Just be aware that this isn't a total Farce; the movie has a little bit of everything (like Nic's career!), and isn't afraid to stroll through its story in a leisurely and relaxed saunter. But don't let that worry you in the least — put your trust in Nic's shamanic instincts as a thespian, and you'll have a fun time.
Nic Cage enjoys playing with himself
It is only a mild exaggeration to say that only Nicolas Cage could star in The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent — this is a picture that simply would not work if someone else was the lead, as not only is the entire movie an Affectionate Parody of Nic Cage's long and diverse career, but it relies on his broad range and unique style to really click.
Fortunately for the rest of us, Cage is a great sport about the movie, and plays himself with a deft balance of Large Ham, Self-Deprecation, and The Comically Serious. This results in a portrayal that is simultaneously straight enough to pull viewers into the story, but silly enough for them to realize that he's not taking any of the jabs to himself seriously. Nic is fully at peace with his quirky (real-life) moviemaking reputation, and this movie is his way of inviting us all to share in the fun. In this endeavor, Cage is perfectly paired with Pedro Pascal, who's also clearly enjoying himself playing the lifelong Fanboy Squeeing over his idol — their Bromantic Comedy chemistry is the biggest appeal of this movie, eclipsing even the slapstick antics and action sequences.
Just be aware that this isn't a total Farce; the movie has a little bit of everything (like Nic's career!), and isn't afraid to stroll through its story in a leisurely and relaxed saunter. But don't let that worry you in the least — put your trust in Nic's shamanic instincts as a thespian, and you'll have a fun time.