If you’re one of the many cinephiles who thinks that there haven’t been nearly enough Nicolas Cage movies lately, this is your year. Not only does it seem like Cage will star in just about every movie of 2012 (even a Ghost Rider sequel is necessary, apparently), but TIFF Bell Lightbox is launching a new midnight series this month: Bangkok Dangerous: The Cinema Of Nicolas Cage.
The series is an eclectic mix of films that showcases the many talents and varied characters of the thespian/weirdo/action hero/wild man. No matter where Cage has fallen on Hollywood’s food chain in recent years, from Oscar winner to Blockbuster Entertainment Award winner, Cage’s performances are, if anything, memorable. From his maniacal performance in the black comedy Vampire’s Kiss to his rockabilly-aw-shucks-I’m-gonna-kick-yer-ass act in Con Air, Cage rarely disappoints in delivering his lines with sheer, uh, gusto, along with that Cage-y je ne sais quoi.
In commemoration of his long overdue tribute, here are our five favourite Nicholas Cage moments:
The Rock (1996)
We don’t think anyone has, or ever will, convincingly say “A-hole” with such a straight face. And mean it, gosh darn it!
The Wicker Man (2006)
Has there ever been a freak out this bad over burned toast? No. And there shouldn’t be.
Valley Girl (1983)
In less than two minutes, Cage professes his love and then tells her off. In doing so, he for sure, like, totally nails what it feels like to be in love as a teen.
Con Air (1997)
We all hope to one day either be, or meet, a grown man so attached to a stuffed animal that he’d kill for it. Right?
Vampire’s Kiss (1989)
Yep, this pretty much sums up the weird wonderfulness of Cage.
Bangkok Dangerous: The Cinema Of Nicolas Cage, TIFF Bell Lightbox, 350 King Street W., 416-968-3456. Jan. 28 – April 7.