Knowing The Truth

I realize that I frequently discuss Nicolas Cage on this blog so I must apologize for bringing him up again. I do it out of admiration for his daring choices. I do it for his brilliance. Mainly though, I do it because he faces such harsh criticism. Let's take his new film, Knowing, for example. Opening day was a rough day for this film. Around 90% of the critics were bashing the film and more specifically Nicolas Cage. His performance, his hair, his roles in the past. All this came in to question once again.

I believe that most people go to his movies expecting to be disappointed or hate him in the film. In fact, his life as an actor seems to mirror that of the character he plays in The Weather Man. I truly believe that if people could, they would throw food at him. But his performances are unique, funny, brave even. What other actor could portray a depressed alcoholic drinking himself to death, a southern marine sent to jail for defending his wife all the while becoming a reluctant hero, an out of work and down on his luck man confused for a hitman, and a police officer thrown into a confusing world of bees, women, bear suits and punching sprees? Imagine Sean Penn doing that? Imagine Denzel Washington? Can you see Russell Crowe playing those parts? No, and they too are Academy Award winning actors.

Nicolas Cage seems to get the last laugh though. Knowing opened up to #1 at the box office and continued to do reasonably well it's second week. I, unlike most people with the exception of Roger Ebert, enjoyed this movie. Is it absurd? Absolutely, but it's completely entertaining and exciting along the way. It strives to be frightening, visually spectacular, entertaining and even a bit thought provoking. Is life predetermined? Do we have a say in our actions and consequences of those actions? What happens when we die? You may have your doubts, but it sure is a fun ride. Nicolas Cage's performance is frantic and energetic. The film does a great job of coasting along with his feelings, his "shit happens" attitude, his hope to save lives to finding the real answers that await us at the end. I ask you to note the variety of his roles, the comedy and drama in them, the small nuances that set him apart from his peers. Know the truth. Open your eyes to the magic that is Nicolas Cage.

SMG