Rating: 3.5/5
Synopsis:
Nicolas Cage continues his run of trippy indie films with “The Surfer”. Here, he plays a father who is returning to the town he grew up in, hoping to purchase his childhood home and take his son surfing at the beach nearby. But a testy group of locals tell him he is not welcome on the beach, as only locals are permitted to enjoy the waves. The locals will stop at nothing to keep him and his son away, resorting to mean-spirited and humiliating tactics to get him off the beach. Question is…how far is this man willing to go to enjoy the beach he is so fond of?
Positives:
I’ll admit that I’ve enjoyed Nic Cage’s recent career transition. His films are wildly unique and provide a filmgoing experience unlike anything else. That trend continues with “The Surfer”, another distinct story that goes in some unexpected directions. The film has a unique look to it, featuring cinematography that gives the film a glossy throwback look. This presented a fresh aesthetic that helped with the maddening circumstances Cage is forced to endure. The film is inspired by an Australian film genre that highlights the surfer bullies of this era. I didn’t expect the story to ratchet up the tension to the level it did, forcing audiences to feel the bullying and physical discomfort Cage goes through. While it is extremely tense, the film has a unique sense of humor that makes viewers uncomfortably chuckle at Cage’s torment.
The movie adds to this tension by playing with the viewer’s perspective, making us wonder if he is going crazy or if everyone on this beach is involved in his mistreatment. Once the film reaches the third act, it takes an unexpected twist that adds to the strange dynamic that has been happening throughout the film. None of this would have been possible without the committed performances of Nicolas Cage and Julian McMahon. Cage gives a physical performance here, withering mentally and physically as his situation worsens. McMahon plays the main antagonist, combining a charming yet diabolical persona that foils Cage’s desire to surf the beach at every turn. The film is widely entertaining on many levels and viewers who give it a chance will be up for a real treat.
Negatives:
The film undoubtedly takes risks in its presentation. In doing so, it is certain to put off some viewers. I don’t see a large audience going to see this film and feeling like it was time well spent. Lots may be feeling like it is too strange or bizarre to enjoy outside of a bonkers performance from Cage. The story has some issues and doesn’t end on the most satisfying note. There are some downright wild sequences that are likely to make or break the film for most. I enjoyed how different the film was but can understand how this might not be someone’s cup of tea. The film is entirely subjective in that regard. Go in expecting to be perplexed and the viewing experience will be more palatable.
Conclusion:
Despite some strange story directions and a ridiculous premise, “The Surfer” manages to be an experience so wild that I enjoyed how perplexed I was leaving the theater. Cage delivers another intense performance likely to make the viewer squeal with discomfort, yet laugh uncomfortably at the events he endures. The supporting cast is effectively menacing, especially Julian McMahon. The color grading and distinct cinematography are impressive, immersing the viewer in an experience that distorts their sense of reality. I’d recommend checking this one out if Cage’s recent efforts have pleased those curious about the film.
