The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent  ★★★½

WHO else but Nicholas Cage could pull off playing himself in a fictional role?

The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent isn’t deep in any particular way, but it does raise questions as to how much Cage actually reveals of himself.

Based on past and current interviews I’d suggest it’s a pretty fair portrayal of this idiosyncratic actor who constantly juggles the desire to create art with the need to maintain a certain lifestyle.

Hence the Cage in the film is dismayed when he fails to land a specific role he has been chasing which could also answer the critics who accuse him of making anything for a pay cheque.

So, with the bills mounting up, Cage reluctant agrees to a $1 million payment to attend a super fan’s weekend birthday celebrations.

Against the odds Cage finds a kindred spirit in his host and enjoying the occasion.

But that all changes when the CIA grab him and reveal his host, played by Pedro Pascal, is an international criminal under surveillance.

Cage reluctantly agrees to do his duty and help the CIA uncover evidence while hoping it may actually show they are wrong about his new friend.

The film is strongest when it focuses on the growing relationship between Cage and Pascal’s character, both in terms of the writing and physicality of the comedic action that results.

Cage is very funny and takes a clever approach to his performance by creating several versions of his character.

This was to be expected, but I think the real revelation is Pascal who adds another string to his versatile bow.

Some of the film, particularly the final act, is pretty formulaic, but it’s worth seeing for the two leads alone.

With this film and the slow burn drama Pig, Cage is back baby. Woooh!