User reviews

Over the course of the last decade, Nicolas Cage's career has taken a weird turn. The former Oscar winner seemed to be back on top, making the National Treasure movies and seemingly on his way to movie star status. And then all of the drama. Money was tight, he had terrible spending habits and had to keep the bread baking. Questionable choices on top of questionable choices. The only thing that seemed to be consistent was every few films, we get a pretty good performance. And then the revolution on social media of commenting on terrible films and appreciating there awfulness became a trend, and people started noticing that even Cage's "bad" films exuded a certain energy. People rightfully gave him credit for giving it his all even for the straight to video fare he did because he had a couple weeks off between other projects. The summation of this bizarre trajectory comes to a peak in this role.

Needless to say, this was the role Cage was meant to play...that being himself. It's always brilliant to see just how far someone will take their art and even lampoon themselves in the process. In the past, we saw Jean-Claude Van Damme do it with JCVD, which caused a bit of an eruption because it was a film about him, but the film was openly mocking him. If not for the heartfelt scene where Van Damme laid everything out and gave insight into his motivations, we understand just how difficult such self reflection can be. Michael Keaton also did this in Birdman, taking a swipe at his most famous character in an attempt to rid himself of his past and take on a new persona for his future. It worked, for he is back in big productions again and even won an Oscar. With Nicolas Cage, what is the commentary going to be?

For a Nicolas Cage super fan like me, this movie was a joy to watch. They whipped out some deep references in this film, and Cage seemed to take joy in lampooning his own performances. I forgot how much Cage goes "full Cage" in Guarding Tess, which is a helpful reminder that he was pretty much the guy that was in offbeat comedies for the longest time. And of course, Cage's inability to handle accents is lampooned hilariously, especially when the characters openly love Captain Corelli's Mandolin, an absolute train wreck of bad accents and over the top mannerisms.

What I especially love is how well Pedro Pascal and Cage interact with each other. You can tell they enjoyed the experience and had a boatload of fun with the material. Also, the bizarre interactions that Cage has with himself (you heard that correctly) are amazing.

Many will say his was a just an ego trip for Cage, but when you see his recent body of work you get the feeling that was the intent. The man loves to perform, regardless of the project. As long as he gets some top billing and as long as people keep watching, why wouldn't he get a little big headed? Cage has definitely walked a strange route and seems fully committed to that journey, and as long as he has the chance to keep making unique projects and bring his "nouveau shamanic" acting method to the forefront, I will continue to enjoy many of the strange outings he participates in.

Very cheesy, but self aware. It was good to laugh at the movies again. Pedro Pascal and Nick Cage somehow made magic together. An unlikely but very effective duo. Even the action scenes were well done. Awesome cast and stunning location. A hilarious and fun ride.

To give you insight into my relationship with Nicolas Cage, I will quote the end of my review for his movie Jiu Jitsu, which I gave 1 star:

"This is just a straight-garbage movie. Damn you Nick Cage!

... I wonder what movie of his I'll watch next."

I've been a fan of his for so long. I think he's very talented and has a certain crazy appeal that you don't see from other actors. And I keep watching most of his movies even as they plummet in quality and rarely make it to cinemas. He still makes them entertaining, even if they are awful. This is a huge contrast to other former A-list actors who have gone down the same path but with unwatchable movies. Like fellow Face/Off star John Travolta or Bruce Willis (we will miss you!).

So when they decide to make a movie that's essentially all about Nick Cage, of course I'm 100% in. And I have to say, this is his best movie in years. It's levels above the quality of his recent direct-to-video movies and is definitely cinema-worthy.

I laughed a lot. A couple parts had me crying from laughter. And when I wasn't laughing I was generally amused. It felt so refreshing to laugh with his movie rather than at it. And with the lack of comedy movies lately, this came at a perfect time.

Other than the comedy, this is a mostly well-made movie with a story and characters that kept me invested. I love the meta aspect. Nick Cage's performance in this role is perfect. It has a good supporting cast with the standout being Pedro Pascal. He's so likeable and has great chemistry with Nick Cage. Their relationship drives the movie. Pedro Pascal is a star.

I had a great time with this movie. I think most will enjoy it, but the ones who will appreciate it the most are the fans who are familiar with his work. (2 viewings, early screening 4/13/2022, 3/26/2023)

My favorite Nick Cage movies:

(1) Face/Off

(2) Kick-Ass

(3) Matchstick Men

(4) The Rock

(5) The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent

(6) Con Air

(7) National Treasure

(8) Next

(9) Knowing

(10) Lord of War

I didn't know if I should count Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse since his role is so small.

Nick Cage: "Is that supposed to be me? It's ... grotesque."

The unbelievable part of The Unbelievable Weight of Immense Talent is that it's all true (in a figurative way). Nicolas Cage can play himself, Nick Cage, because the many films he's been in, some worthwhile (Moonstruck, Raising Arizona, Face/Off) and some terrible (take your pick), have prepared him for a true meta experience, like John Malkovich in Being John Malkovich or the cast playing themselves in Robert Altman's The Player.

Of course, it's hilarious because Cage is usually a witty version of himself and making fun of himself anyway (except when he wins the Oscar for Leaving Las Vegas). With the help of director Tom Gormican and writer Kevin Etten, Unbearable is a metanarrative of Nick as a burgeoning hero for his daughter, Addy (Lily Sheen), and a buddy for a drug kingpin, Avi (Pedro Pascal), with whom he writes a joke thriller, which Unbearable turns out to be.

Pascal's performance as a thorough Cage fan and possible drug lord emphasizes the often-close emotional bond between fans, star, and film. There is little difference between us and Avi in our love for the actor and his roles.

Throughout this comedy, the art of filmmaking turns out to take center screen as the principals dog out a workable script that they really are starring in here, more or less because the fusion of art and life is blurred. The varied facets of filmmaking and the actor's relationship with his audience are never far from the surface. Nor is it stagnant because each Cage film is a mirror for Hollywood's immediate needs and its actor's. In Unbearable Nick's striving for the "part of a lifetime," never far from a cliché.

For Nicolas Cage, such is his life, and the film makes fun of his accepting roles solely for getting cash to pay his bills, and maybe, just maybe, for the joy of acting, for which he's indicted when he loses the people closest to him because of his obsession for acting.

As Cage plays himself, he stumbles on the right script to reconcile him with his family and win the admiration of his audience. He's never far from his Oscar in Leaving Las Vegas or a "should-have-been-nominated" in Pig. A good will pervades this complex comedy, largely because Cage has a good heart hidden underneath his thespian ambitions, real or fictional.

The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent. Nicholas Cage movie, about Nicholas Cage and his fight between his artistic aspirations and his chasing of the big bucks as a movie star. In other words there's lots of over acting, lots of action and it's very very clever and funny. A wonderful movie and well worth seeing . 8/10.

At more than one stage appearing destined for a sad demise in the lands of direct to video releases that ranged from the tolerable to the diabolical, the recent career revival and public adoration towards Oscar winner and walking meme Nicolas Cage has been a sight to behold and easily one of feel good stories of modern Hollywood history.

It's hard to nail down an exact time and place where Cage reminded us all that he is in fact some form of national treasure but with the likes of recent releases such as Mandy, Joe, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse and last years wonderful surprise Pig, Cage has started to deliver products that are not only on par with his early to mid-90's output but arguably career best with new meta-comedy The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent taking Cage's new found place in the adoring world to all new levels of goodness.

Teaming up with sophomore feature director Tom Gormican to bring his real-life persona into a wild mix of his Hollywood self, Cage is here playing himself in a wild adventure that see's the committed performer a guest at Pedro Pascal's Javi Gutierrez's Spanish villa as the long-time Cage fanboy invites him to his home in an event that quickly turns dangerous as Cage is called upon help the US government stop a group of deadly arms dealers.

Narratively there's nothing to get overly excited about here but the glue that holds this romp all together is the fact Gormican brings out the absolute best of Cage that is sure to be a treat to anyone that has watched his career blossom from bit parts in Fast Times at Ridgemont High, to Oscar glory in Leaving Las Vegas then sad appearances in the likes of The Wicker Man or Left Behind, with Cage here having the time of his life reflecting on his up and down career, riffing of his imaginary younger self and creating comedic gold chemistry with his co-star who proves his just as at home in a film such as this as he is in Mexican cartels and battling evil in a galaxy far far away.

Rarely stopping for a moments pause, once Cage arrives as Javi's picturesque villa and strikes up a budding friendship with the film loving screenwriting fan, Weight just goes for broke as it throws Cage in a series of over the top and crazy situations with highlights coming thick and fast in the form of cliff jumps and acid trips and while it does start to lose steam once Cage's ex-wife and daughter arrive on the scene around the three quarters mark, there's a lot of good will built up from the film that ensures its never far from providing a fun time for all who signed up for the adventure to Cage's world that we are just living in.

A film that for all intents and purposes should never have existed if we were to rewind mere years ago, Weight is a memorable addition to the totally unique and once in a lifetime career of one of Hollywood's most engaging icons, Weight has no right being as entertaining as it is as it gives us an insight into the world of Nic Cage, the man, the myth and the legend.

Final Say -

Likely to be a new favourite for any of Nic Cage's long-term fans or new bandwagoners, The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent is a hugely entertaining film that doesn't unleash anything spectacular but does a fine job of allowing its leading men to have an absolute blast in a meta-comedy that will be one of 2022's most genuinely surprising outings.

3 1/2 Donnie Brasco situations out of 5

For more reviews check out Jordan and Eddie (The Movie Guys)

The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent is a standard action comedy elevated by meta aspects. Particularly, Nicolas Cage as himself is a great gimmick since he's embraced his meme status. Still, Massive Talent is a missed opportunity because it's otherwise generic. The self-awareness is fun, the self-deprecation works, the Cage/Pascal chemistry is endearing, and the ending is heartfelt. However, the plot is lacking. Massive Talent admits that talky comedy and shoehorned action are lowbrow, yet plays into those tropes. The climax especially devolves into forgettable modern formulas. Therefore, Massive Talent combines wit with mediocrity, making it a mixed bag.

Meanwhile, Massive Talent's technicals are minor. There's fitting music, believable production, and blending sound transitions. The editing is noticeable because it serves punchlines and maintains a tight runtime. However, the cinematography isn't proactive, the effects are sparse (besides a young Nick alter ego), and the direction is basic. The tone takes itself just seriously enough, but the presentation of this material is bland. Ultimately, Nicolas Cage's commitment, Pascal's innocence, and the vulnerable family drama drive Massive Talent, but only so far. It's a fun movie that Cage fans should enjoy, but don't expect much else.

Writing: 6/10 Direction: 5/10 Cinematography: 5/10 Acting: 7/10 Editing: 6/10 Sound: 6/10 Score/Soundtrack: 6/10 Production Design: 6/10 Casting: 8/10 Effects: 7/10

Overall Score: 6.2/10.

It's fair to say I haven't always been the biggest fan of Nicholas Cage, but it's not the talent, it's often the film choices, similar to Michael Cain, he really has made some shockers. What this film does however is poke a little fun at his past, it's tongue in cheek, but it's a cracking movie.

It's funny, it's energetic, it zips along, there isn't a single dull moment here, you don't need to be a fan or a critic, this movie is just really worth your time.

Loaded with irony, it's plain to see that Cage has a sense of humour, this really is a winner for him.

It wasn't what I was expected, but I am so glad I went to see it, I'd really recommend it. 9/10.

This movie is a blast of entertainment a perfect spoof of Nicolas playing himself with great references, wackiness, and brilliant surprises! A treat for fans or not a The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent is a well constructed delightful experience. I love how everything plays out if I could be the equivalent of Pedro Pascals character I definitely would I'm a huge fan of Nicolas's films and this one is a ultimate fun! The action is badass, dialogue is well written and hilarious the bulk of the duration.

Nic Cage plays a fictionalized version of himself in an enjoyable action-comedy that also stars a brilliant Pedro Pascal. Writers Tom Gormican and Kevin Etten strike a solid balance between fanboy moments and telling a fairly engaging story. While Cage excels in his dialogue-based humor, Pedro Pascal (who gets nearly equal emotional footing in the story) plays perfect foil to him. The underlying kidnapping plot is something that typically works in a Nic Cage action film, though Cage playing (a version of) himself makes all the difference here. The Easter eggs are organically placed, and the beautiful Spanish locales and production design present themselves as positives. The supporting cast also pitch in when needed, but Cage and Pascal do most of the heavy-lifting from a dramatic and comedic standpoint.

Caught an advance screening tonight and I thought it was super fun. I'm a huge Nicolas Cage fan, and it was over the top and crazy and chaotic and heartwarming. And there's definitely some cuckoo stuff mixed in, I'm actually a little surprised he didn't take the weirdness even further. And he yelled a lot but I would've taken even more. Haha Definitely a light silly night at the movies :) LONG LIVE CAGE.

This is a love letter to Nicholas Cage that I never really saw coming, but left me thoroughly entertained. He is a ton of fun in this movie, fully embracing the off-the-wall concept and sharing a delightful chemistry with Pedro Pascal. A good deal of the film is spent on the aimless conversations between the two, and these scenes are a joy to watch.

The story is chock full of goings-on, and while the midsection does sag a bit, I loved the overall vibe and the transparent celebration of Cage's ... *checks notes* ... "nouveau shamanic acting ability". The marketing for this movie may have been a head-scratcher, but I had a lot of fun with the end product.

I don't see movies in theaters very often, but this looked well worth it. I'm actually glad I went to the theatre for it because had I paid to stream it or waited for Redbox, I may not have finished it (or may have split it over a couple days). I love Cage, but this was just not as good as the current score here on IMDb (7.8 as I write this) says it is. The high ratings must be from people who can't separate the older Nicolas Cage flix from how this movie actually was. Maybe those who want to say he's "back" - not that he went anywhere - want to rate this higher than it deserves to ensure that he returns to the "A" list. It was ok, but lacked something. I liked the alter-ego character of Cage that other reviews say was Sailor from Wild at Heart. Initially I thought it was Randy from Valley Girl. It would have been cool to have a few of his old characters sprinkled in as the alter-egos, but that wasn't the case. Overall it was a bit dull and drawn out.

Nicolas Cage plays Nicolas Cage in an action-comedy-thriller about an actor who's paid $1 million to hang out with a suspected drug lord/huge Nic Cage fan (played by Pedro Pascal), and the complications that arise when the CIA simultaneously recruit Cage to spy on him.

Does it sound too good to be true? Sort of. I was very excited to see this and hate to admit it, but found it to be a slight letdown.

There were definitely positives though. Cage and Pascal are great, and without their committed performances, I don't know if the movie would have much else by way of entertainment value. Things shine when they're on screen together, and I loved their chemistry. Their dynamic made for many of the film's funniest moments, mainly in the first hour. It's in that first half to first two-thirds where the creative premise is a fair bit of fun, and decently executed.

Problems come up in the final act. Without too many spoilers, they try to acknowledge the direction it takes with some meta humour, but the meta humour is pretty lazy (meta comedy has advanced to the point where merely being meta isn't enough). Also, the focus on action in that last act wouldn't be a problem if the action was good, but it's weirdly flat and toothless. It doesn't have much bite or excitement or fun to it at all.

Still, at least there's some good comedic moments at a few points, and Cage + Pascal make it watchable. I wish it had been a little more consistent and been more engaging when it came to the action/thriller elements though.

Even if it's not as wild or fun as it could've been, it's still likely to be a pretty decent time for fans of Nic Cage.

"The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent" walks a fine line between rough-around-the-edges charm and occasional silliness, the film maintains a good balance. It embraces its cheesy elements without descending into stupidity.

Is it an all time classic? No, but it's a new angle and refreshing, the rough edges add character, contributing to the film's unique charm.

By highlighting Nicolas Cage's flaws as an actor, the film paradoxically enhances our understanding and appreciation of him. It's a candid portrayal that adds depth to his craft, inviting audiences to see beyond the surface and appreciate the intricacies of his unique talent.

In the end, it manages to be everything it should be, flawed yet great, a testament to the art of navigating the thin line between entertainment and eccentricity. It seems just right.

Massive disappointment in this film. My own damn fault as I built it up in my head too much. When it was character-centric I enjoyed it a lot more, but the more action and generic it got my interests waned exponentially. Also too much 'hey this cage movie, memba that moments.

First of all, it is great to see Nick Cage working with such actors like Pedro Pascal who can not only keep up with Cage's screen presence but also enhance it. Secondly, as I have stated in the title, you'll enjoy this experience regardless if you are a fan of the man or not but if you are a fan, then you'll be very glad to see that the film has many nods to Cage's evolving filmography throughout the years. In the end, movie is both a cheesy (and well aware of itself) and a special thing that's not like any other comedy movie.

Watching this film I was unsure if it was a comedy, a farce, or Nick Cage's personal fever dream, but no matter what it was, I loved it! Clever and compelling, this film weaves a tale that results in laughs both hearty and wry. A+

It may not shine as bright as his best or most memorable works- but The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent does serve as an entertaining showcase for Nicolas Cage fans and provides a odd enjoyment for anyone who will soon learn the name. I'll be honest, I think I expected way too much from this movie, which I know can sound quite ridiculous. It just seemed a bit unremarkable at times, and considering how exuberant and charismatic Cage is and has been throughout his career- I just thought it would be a bit more. Nevertheless, the film is perfectly enjoyable as it is. A lot of the comedy works here, and the third act is packed with fun action energy that feels like it came straight out of the 90's- honestly my favorite element of the film in general. The first two acts can struggle to find a consistent tone throughout, shifting between the solemn woes of our fateful protagonist, comedy excess, and a CIA side plot. It doesn't always work, and it can feel a bit clunky, shifting its tone to less enjoyable levels, but it's certainly never boring to watch and always manages to keep the audience's attention. I loved the relationship between Cage and Pascal's character Javi and really wish the film would have focused more on that rather than the other subplots of the film at times. I enjoyed the cinematography and the cast is all excellent, I just feel the film needed a bit of a kick in one specific direction. In the end, The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent is far from bad, but not as great as some may claim. It can serve as a fun showcase for Cage fans at times, but can be a bit too clunky to carry its story in a consistent way. Nevertheless, the film is still entertaining through and through and Cage's eccentric performance and charisma with Pascal on screen truly allow the film to stand out as a whole.

My Rating: 6.1/10.

6/10 - after seeing the trailer and hearing the raves out of SXSW, I was expecting the cult classic successor to Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar, but sadly this film lacked few if any true punchlines and was quite the slog.

Clearly a first draft. It needed some serious rewrites, and then some acting talent and a director who wasn't a hack. Everybody comes off as unfunny and flat and phoning it in. I'm confused...what was this supposed to be?

When the film focuses on a semi satirical Nic Cage playing himself or his younger imaginary alter ego, there's moments of pure joy. Referencing his career highs and lows, the damage done to his ex-wife & daughter is potent. Facing financial hardships (mirroring real life) and accepts an offer to appear at a a rich man's birthday for 1mil and then we meet Javi (Pedro Pascal) and see their organic friendship blossom again the flick works.

Unfortunately the main focus of the story is Cage going to work for the CIA because Javi is allegedly this dark man who has kidnapped a politician's daughter to stop an organized crime crackdown. This element is tired and played out. Cage's #1 fan also has written a script. Obviously Nic is at first annoyed at the prospect of being asked to read it / star in it. Then in a bit of formula 101, Javi's script and the way Cage tries to shape it (per orders from the CIA) literally becomes the last half of the movie.

Cage is pretty good and fully game for pokes at himself and the meta comedy elements. Pascal is both endearing and sweet without being sappy. I like the overall concept of 'Unbearable Weight', but there's no denying the first half is the strongest material on display. The story gives out and the goodwill the film earns gets steamrolled on it's way to cliche territory and a modest, but predictable ending with some action & happy feels.

'The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent' will please Cage fans, up Pedro's already sky-high likability. The supporting cast kinda fall by the wayside for the most part. It's a shame they couldn't have gone in a different direction with the latter half of the story. It flies in the face of the spirit & tone of what was built up beforehand.