Actor Nicolas Cage agrees to a supernatural deal, giving up his soul, in a house acquisition depicted in 'The Surfer' scenario.
Hittin' the Shore with 'The Surfer': A Chat with Nic Cage and Lorcan Finnegan
Welcome, one and all, to the rollercoaster ride that is "The Surfer." This modern-day tale, starring none other than the legendary Nicolas Cage, explores the age-old questions about masculinity, revenge, and familial trauma in a claustrophobic, sun-soaked thriller.
The story revolves around our unnamed protagonist, who yearns to return to his childhood roots in Australia and reclaim his father's prized home perched atop an idyllic cliffside. Setting the scene is the gleaming present, with Cage's character pulling up in a swanky Lexus and trying to secure funds for the $1.7 million property through his phone. Quaint, isn't it, when tribalism and deep-seated trauma make their appearances in such a seemingly modern world?
In an exclusive conversation with the Associated Press, Cage and the film's director, Lorcan Finnegan, touched on the flick's surrealism, the role of violence in cinema, and the inspiration behind some of the movie's most unforgettable moments. Let's dive right in!
Unleashing the Inner Beast
AP: Mr. Cage, you've always been a fan of exploring unique forms of acting. Where does that rebel spirit come from?
CAGE: Well, I didn't want to get pigeonholed into a niche, stuck in a rut of mediocrity. I've always appreciated the surrealistic approach in art—from painters like Francis Bacon to music that pushes boundaries. So I figured, why not bring that sensibility to acting? But remember, it has to serve the story and evolve its arc—not just be one big, loud spectacle.
The Art of Testosterone Tussles
FINNEGAN: There's a sort of masculinity in crisis that's threaded through the film, but it's not an exploration of toxic masculinity per se. Instead, it's a way to drive the narrative and highlight our lead character's desperation to find belonging. If Cage's character can't procure his childhood home, he's lost the only connection he has to his father. Enter McMahon's Scally character, who's alluring and seductive, luring our protagonist into a dangerous, manipulative game.
The Allure of Adrenaline-Fueled Chaos
AP: Sir, you've dabbled in violence in the past. What draws you to it?
CAGE: As someone who tries their best to avoid such things in real life, I'll tell you this: violence is one of the backbones of cinema. Whatever leads a character to that breaking point is inherently compelling. That, my friend, is what keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
Scenes Worth Savoring
FINNEGAN: There's definitely a playful aspect to the rat scene in the film—that came about organically during production. Cage, with a mischievous twinkle in his eye, had been inspired by an old Humphrey Bogart scene from "Sabrina." And voila! The rest, as they say, is surrealistic movie history.
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- Lorcan Finnegan, the director of "The Surfer," shares enjoyment and intrigue with Nicolas Cage's unconventional acting style, as both have affinity for surrealism found in artists like Francis Bacon and boundary-pushing music.
- Despite his claustrophobic fear of confined spaces, Lorcan Finnegan felt particularly drawn to Seattle's idyllic scenery while shooting scenes for "The Surfer," creating a stark contrast between the city and the sun-soaked thriller's narrative.
- As the story unfolds, Seattle's entertainment scene offers an alternative pastime for Nic Cage and Lorcan Finnegan, with films and TV shows providing moments of relaxation and inspiration for their work on "The Surfer."
- Amidst the chaos of "The Surfer," fans may find solace in a small, reconciliatory scene between Cage's character and Scally, as the two share a meaningful talk reminiscent of Humphrey Bogart's dialogue in the classic film "Sabrina."
