In a pleasant turn of events, one of Nicolas Cage‘s outstanding performances is gaining traction among a broader viewership, courtesy of Netflix. Released in the year 2021, the film “Pig” may not have created a significant stir at the box office initially, but it left critics spellbound, earning a remarkable 97% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. With its popularity growing on Netflix, you might be curious if “Pig” is worth watching. In essence, yes, it definitely is!
Upon reading the logline for the 2021 indie drama “Pig,” directed by Michael Sarnoski, one might initially think it’s another over-the-top Nicolas Cage performance. After all, it’s about a secluded chef who goes to extreme lengths to recover his stolen truffle-finding pig. It seems ripe for Cage to deliver another high-energy, “Drive Angry” type of performance. However, the actual viewing experience is quite distinct.
Instead of showcasing the eccentricity that has earned him meme fame, Nicolas Cage’s performance in Pig as a complex, troubled character is one of his most sensitive, nuanced, and moving portrayals in years. With Pig currently enjoying its deserved popularity on streaming platforms, ranking among Netflix’s top 10, it’s an ideal opportunity to explore this lesser-known aspect of the legendary actor’s talent.
‘Pig’s Culinary Underworld
As a devoted admirer, I’d like to share the captivating narrative of Robin Feld, once a renowned chef, who transformed into a truffle hunter following the tragic demise of his wife. Seeking solace in the untamed wilderness of Oregon, he established a new life there, maintaining minimal interactions with the world beyond through infrequent encounters with Amir, his truffle broker, whom he kept at a distance. His only genuine link to the world was his cherished pig, who shared his adventures during truffle hunts and provided comfort in his modest cabin. However, one fateful night, Robin found himself unconscious after an attack by intruders, only to regain consciousness to discover that his beloved pig had been stolen. This heart-wrenching incident propelled him on a daring odyssey into the shadowy underbelly of Portland’s culinary scene, where he reluctantly enlisted Amir’s assistance in recovering his precious companion.
One captivating aspect of the movie “Pig” lies in the way Sarnoski portrays an unexpectedly shadowy facet of Portland’s culinary world, replete with peculiar customs, confidentiality, and even a clandestine fight club. Robin, once a revered chef, leverages his connections to gain access, but endures physical brutality as part of the process. This narrative could seem absurd if not for Sarnoski’s skillful approach as a writer and director, and the emotionally scarred protagonist that forms the heart of the film.
Why ‘Pig’ Is Cage at His Best
For a long time, Cage has been a significant figure in Hollywood. However, during the 2000s and the early part of the 2010s, his career experienced some setbacks. Despite appearing in numerous films, the overall quality of these productions was generally poor. This was due to him accepting any roles that came his way as a means to pay off substantial back taxes. A performer famed for his electrifying screen presence seemed to be merely going through the motions during this period.
During approximately the same period, Cage gained popularity as an internet sensation when collections of his most extraordinary acting scenes garnered millions of views online. Towards the end of the 2010s, Cage capitalized on this newfound fame by starring in genre films that were widely praised, such as “Mom and Dad” (2017) and “Mandy” (2018). Although he was still taking on many projects for pay at this time, these films demonstrated the incredible impact Cage could have when fully engaged. In recent times, Cage has managed to balance his reputation as a respected actor with his status as an internet meme quite successfully.
The intense, heart-wrenching transformation in the movie “Pig” came as an even greater shock due to Robin’s deeply ingrained resignation and isolation. Life has left him battered, making it hard for him to fight back or connect with others. However, he’s prepared to take any necessary steps to retrieve his pig, doing so with a quiet determination. For significant parts of the film, Cage remains silent, but his raw grief is palpable in his eyes and gestures.
In the most dramatic moment we see, Robin subtly criticizes a renowned chef named Derek (exceptional performance by David Knell showcasing perspiration of embarrassment). This man now operates an exclusive restaurant that prioritizes trendy fads over his original aspirations. Robin skillfully exposes Derek’s vulnerabilities without needing to speak loudly, merely whispering his rebuke.
The subtle, melancholic delivery of the character in “Pig” might not resonate with fans who crave Nic Cage at his most flamboyant, but it serves as a testament that amidst the thrill of his wildest acting (and there’s no denying they’re always entertaining to behold), he is capable of delivering a strikingly realistic performance that matches the best in Hollywood. “Pig” is likely to be remembered as one of Cage’s best performances, a view shared by none other than Cage himself.
Pig is available to stream now on Netflix.
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2025-05-28 01:32