Nicolas Cage is a renowned actor known for his unique choice of roles. Throughout his career, the actor has appeared in various films and proved his versatility. The list of his performances is filled with various intriguing roles, that have significantly impacted the audience. However, it’s a universal fact that no matter how good you are at your craft, there will be some who won’t appreciate it.
Along with various accolades, Cage has also seen a fair share of criticism for his roles. And the criticism hits a little harder when it comes from a fellow actor. Oscar-winning actor Sean Penn questioned Cage’s acting skills. However, Cage didn’t take any offense from his co-star’s remark and sportingly acknowledged it.
Nicolas Cage faced severe criticism from his fellow actor
Nicolas Cage has appeared in numerous incredible films throughout his career. Among them have been some collaborative projects with iconic actors, and Sean Penn has been one of his partners in some of the major films like Racing with the Moon.
Sean Penn is an Oscar-winning actor who is undeniably one of the most reputable actors in the industry, thanks to his incredible contribution to the film industry. Earlier during an interview, with The New York Times, the actor discussed accepting lower paychecks as compared to his peers. He said,
“Don’t get me wrong, I would like to get paid, but I don’t know what you do with anything over $10 million. After that, it doesn’t make any sense to me.”
Penn also blatantly talked about his co-star Cage’s film choices. He said,
”Nic Cage is no longer an actor. He could be again, but now he’s more like a performer.”
However, Cage didn’t take any offense to his fellow actor’s words, as he claimed that he respects his career choices and wants to be remembered for his craft.
Also Read: Dream Scenario TIFF Review: Nic Cage Is Fun in Surprisingly Broad A24 Comedy
Nicolas Cage acknowledged Sean Penn’s remark
During an interview with Total Film, Nicolas Cage acknowledged Sean Penn’s criticism in a sporting manner. Cage said,
“That was his opinion and, you know, we’ve since left it all behind us.”
He also emphasized that it has been a common reaction of a critic whenever someone tries to explore something new in his field. The actor recalled,
“When I did Peggy Sue Got Married I wanted to play the character with this ridiculous voice and look, and I knew that it would be criticized, but I thought that it’s much more interesting to take the bad critical hits and know that you’ve really done something.”
Cage further explained that opting for a unique unusual and challenging role is his personal choice as it makes his performance memorable. He said,
“What’s the point in just getting good reviews? At the end of the day, I want people to go, ‘Well, what the hell was that?’ What’s that line in Tootsie? Bill Murray leaves the movie theatre saying, “I don’t want people going, ‘Hey, that’s great!’ I want people to go, 15 years from now, ‘What the fuck was that? ’”
Nicolas Cage is known for his bizarre yet impact performances. The actor does not shy away from experimentation, moreover, his passion for his craft is indeed commendable as he certainly dwells in this character. For instance, in the 1988 film Vampire’s Kiss, the actor ate live cockroaches for a scene.
Source: Total Film
