Nicolas Cage Risked His Life Filming New Thriller ‘The Surfer’

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As a die-hard film enthusiast, let me tell you about my latest on-screen adventure: Nicolas Cage‘s new flick, titled “The Surfer,” hit the big screen on May 2nd. This film is already creating quite a stir, with many critics claiming it’s one of the finest performances by the esteemed Academy Award winner in recent memory. Now, this production wasn’t just another sunny day at the beach for me; it was a rollercoaster ride, to say the least! Filmed down under in Australia, I encountered the raw and unforgiving power of the sea firsthand. In fact, during filming, I found myself in some precarious situations where I could have easily met my match – the relentless ocean. But hey, that’s showbiz for you!

In the movie “Vivarium,” directed by Lorcan Finnegan, Nicolas Cage portrays a man who takes his son back to his Australian hometown and tries surfing at a local beach. However, the townsfolk aren’t too welcoming, and they make it clear that they will go to great lengths to prevent him from staying. Apart from Cage, the film features Julian McMahon, Nic Cassim, Alexander Bertrand, Finn Little, Justin Rosniak, and others as co-stars.

Speaking with Entertainment Weekly, Cage shares his thoughts on the filming process, acknowledging a few challenges. “We faced issues such as unpredictable weather, surprisingly active sharks, and other complications,” the actor explains about the production, admitting that some stunts were riskier than he initially anticipated.

I’ve tried surfing several times, but each attempt left me feeling battered. I’ve caught waves at Sunset Beach. When I was learning, my instructor provided me with a shortboard. I asked for a longboard instead.

Recently, I found myself in a harrowing situation where I was swept away by a powerful rip tide. My board, which is distinctively shaped like a triangle top, or as they call it, a ‘tombstone,’ was spotted by onlookers. As I tumbled in the water, I clung to my leash for dear life, somersaulting all the way. The experience was so intense that it brought me close to death. With a young child now, I’m questioning whether I still want to take such risks.

What Critics Are Saying About Nicolas Cage’s ‘The Surfer’

The Surfer has been riding the wave of success that Nicolas Cage began surfing in 2018 with Mandy. Prior to this, Cage had largely focused on independent projects. In 2019, he starred in The Color Out of Space, delivering one of his most eccentric yet intriguing performances. He followed this with Pig, a 2021 thriller that many critics claim showcases his best performance to date. Renfield and Dream Scenario were added to the list of his recent notable roles, with Cage receiving a Golden Globe nomination for his role in Dream Scenario. In 2024, he appeared in Longlegs, a horror film that demonstrated he’s still at the top of his game.

A majority of Julian Roman’s latest ventures have received critical praise, with “The Surfer” currently boasting an impressive 86% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. In his review for this film, our esteemed critic, Julian Roman, succinctly summed it up best.

Cage’s character remains vibrant with intricate and nuanced performances. The character’s slide into insanity is captivating. He morphs into another creature under persistent torment, all while enduring the scorching heat.

The movie titled “The Surfer” held my attention effectively until its conclusion which seemed overly tidy. Finnegan and screenwriter Thomas Martin wrap up any remaining uncertainties in a neat package following 90 minutes filled with fisticuffs, foul substances, and deceased rodents. Although the ending feels contrived, the film’s profound themes and its daring presentation make it worth recommending.

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2025-05-05 19:32