The Surfer review: Nicolas Cage rage elevates tense pyshcological thriller

As a die-hard fan of Nicolas Cage, I must say that The Surfer is yet another masterpiece in his extensive and illustrious career. Over the past decade, “Cage Rage” has been a staple of Nic’s performances, and The Surfer continues this tradition with flair.


Nicolas Cage is doing Nicolas Cage things in The Surfer, a psychological thriller that pits an American businessman against a gang of angry Australian surfers in a tense turf war.

Over the past ten years, “Cage Rage” has significantly impacted Nicolas Cage’s acting career. Earlier in his films such as Vampire’s Kiss and Wild at Heart, it was evident that he felt irritated. However, in more recent roles, he’s amplified his on-screen fury to a greater extent.

Mandy appeared to be the breaking point, showcasing top-tier rage with a large sword in hand. This was followed by Pig, where an outburst of pig-inspired anger led to a standout performance. Earlier this year, his Longlegs emitted bloodcurdling screams and howls that were reminiscent of a serial killer portrayed by Nicolas Cage.

In the course of the film, the Surfer character starts off with Cage initially dressed in a modest suit, but by the end, he’s transformed into a completely new persona. The narrative takes us on a journey where he experiences an array of emotions, including a significant amount of anger.

What is The Surfer about?

The Surfer review: Nicolas Cage rage elevates tense pyshcological thriller

In The Surfer movie, a character named Cage observes the scenic coastline and beachfront estate he’s aiming to purchase, all set within the picturesque seaside town of Lunar Bay, where he initially gazes out at it.

The house was owned by his grandfather, a location that Surfer has strived towards for his entire life, a captivating spot steeped in magic. To commemorate this, he aims to surf some waves together with his child. However, it’s here that the difficulties arise.

At this specific beach, it’s primarily reserved for the locals, not due to any legal restrictions, but because a group known as ‘Bay Boys’, headed by Scully (Julian McMahon), have claimed it as their territory. They consider themselves guardians of this particular coastal area. However, another character perceives them differently, labeling them as “yuppies pretending to be gangsters.

In another phrasing, they are not welcome anywhere around here, so he leaves disheartened. Meanwhile, the boy departs, but the dog, Surfer, remains stationary in the parking lot, unable to move from the unfairness unfolding before his eyes.

What follows is a story of escalation, which begins when the gang steal his board, and something snaps inside Surfer. It gets physical, through a fight with the Bay Boys. Then morphs into something more disturbing when the battle of wills turns psychological, with the gang bullying Surfer into submission.

However, under the scorching sun, the Surfer is battling not only the waves but also his inner struggles – spectral remnants of his past that when confronted, provide him with the fortitude to resist. This preludes to a thrilling confrontation on the beach, playing out in an intriguingly erratic manner.

Pushing Nicolas Cage to the edge

This story has a complex and eerie feel, combining elements of Straw Dogs and Falling Down, but it takes an unsettling turn when you grasp Scully’s real motives. However, The Surfer is still an engaging film, mainly because of the captivating portrayal of Nicolas Cage as his character experiences a profound physical, mental, and emotional breakdown.

Physical adversity is inflicted upon him through acts of violence. Moreover, items such as clothes, shoes, a phone, and even his vehicle mysteriously vanish. Mentally, he experiences gaslighting that makes him doubt his own perception of reality. This relentless treatment erodes his identity, leaving Surfer emotionally shattered.

The Surfer review: Nicolas Cage rage elevates tense pyshcological thriller

As a gaming enthusiast, I’d say not many characters in video games would be willing to expose themselves as deeply as Nic Cage does on screen. He seems to thrive on it, venturing into realms that other actors shy away from. It’s absolutely captivating to witness his character, the Surfer, unraveling right before our eyes.

Julian McMahon delivers an impressive performance in his role as Scully, a bully figure, speaking words that resemble the philosophies of Andrew Tate, filled with harmful masculine ideologies to manipulate those under his influence.

It’s thrilling to see the two men squaring off against each other, and both are equally impressive, with McMahon managing to trade blows evenly with Cage, making it difficult to guess who might emerge victorious in the end.

Is the Surfer good?

The Movie “The Surfer” is supported by two exceptional acting performances. However, it’s not just about performances; it’s a film that immerses you in its haunting mood and ambiance. Thomas Martin’s tightly structured script skillfully intensifies the tension, raising both the protagonist’s and the audience’s apprehension to a peak level. This results in an explosive climax.

He’s supported by director Lorcan Finnegan, who employs every resource available to him to sustain an unsettling sensation. Memories of the protagonist’s past create a sense of imbalance, while the encroaching natural world and wildlife seem to suggest danger from multiple directions.

François Tétaz’s dreamy music score enhances the atmosphere of magical realism, provoking viewers to ponder the authenticity of events, mirroring Surfer’s internal struggle with his own mental state. Collectively, these elements give The Surfer a depth that transcends its individual components.

The Surfer score: 4/5

If you’re a fan of ‘Cage Rage,’ then you’re sure to be captivated by ‘The Surfer.’ This film takes our protagonist, Nic, to the brink of his limits, only to plunge him into the depths. And just like the initial description implies, it’s quite an exhilarating ride!

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2024-10-11 11:51