Summary
- Nicolas Cage shines in the post-apocalyptic thriller
Arcadian
as a protective father facing terrifying monsters with his teenage sons. - Arcadian
offers stunning visuals and intense horror-action scenes, showcasing Cage’s well-known versatility. - Despite flying under the radar,
Arcadian
deserves more attention for its gripping plot, talented cast, and eerie atmosphere that keeps viewers on edge, and it’s finally streaming.
As a huge fan of Nicolas Cage, I’ve been following his career with great enthusiasm for decades. I’ve seen him shine in various genres, from dramas to comedies, but it’s his work in horror films that has left me absolutely spellbound. His latest post-apocalyptic thriller, “Arcadian,” is a testament to his versatility as an actor and a reminder of why I fell in love with his craft in the first place.
In the late 2010s, American actor Nicolas Cage underwent a career reinvention, focusing on horror films like “Mandy” and “Color Out of Space.” This transformation reached its peak in 2024 when Cage, known for his versatility and popularity, appeared in an impressive three movies that year. While the chilling horror film “Longlegs,” which centers around a serial killer possibly driven by occult forces, has generated significant buzz, it’s important not to overlook the other two projects.
First is The Surfer, a psychological thriller in which Cage plays a surfer returning to his beloved beach in Australia only to end up waging war against a local gang. The second is Arcadian, a post-apocalyptic thriller in which Cage plays the father of twin teenagers trying their best to survive 15 years after the apocalypse. Borrowing from other well-known apocalypse movies but with a scarier edge that rides the wave of the likes of Bird Box, A Quiet Place, or The Silence, this harrowing thriller features gut-wrenching scenes in surprisingly beautiful settings.
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A Scary Concept for a Post-Apocalyptic Thriller
In the opening scene of Arcadian, an apocalypse unfolds without clear definition. Amid the chaos, Paul (Cage) clings to his newborn twins as sirens wail, people scream, and explosions echo in the background. Fifteen years later, Thomas (Jenkins) and Joseph (Martell) are among the survivors, assisting their father in their ongoing struggle against the apocalypse’s harsh realities. Their primary adversaries are nightmarish creatures that are sensitive to light. Unfortunately, the source of these monsters remains a mystery, leaving viewers pondering throughout the film.
In contrast to Paul, Thomas, and Joseph, there are other survivors in their rural locale, which is more secure than urban areas. Close by is the Rose farm, inhabited by Mr. Rose (Joe Dixon) and his kin, consisting of his daughter Charlotte (Sadie Soverall). The group needs to strike a balance between pooling resources, collaborating to fend off creatures, and safeguarding themselves. Paul will face tough decisions to prioritize the welfare of his sons, whose desires vary.
Arcadian Features Stunning Visuals and Nicolas Cage at His Best
Despite having subpar special effects for 2024, the monsters in Arcadian remain frightening with their quick actions and determination to consume humans. Their fear of light is a common horror trope, as seen in films like I Am Legend and The Maze Runner. However, the terror lies in being vulnerable only during the night, when survival concerns already dominate the daytime hours, leaving little room for relaxation.
The film failed to make a big splash at the box office, yet it received considerable acclaim from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, it earned a commendable 79% approval rating. The movie was lauded for its captivating visuals, a straightforward yet compelling storyline, and heart-pounding horror-action sequences. Although some viewers might have been disappointed by the absence of typical Cage quirks, his portrayal of a protective father was exceptional. This role served as a fresh reminder that Nicolas Cage is more than just an internet meme – he’s an accomplished actor with an Oscar to his name.
With an abundance of thrilling moments and jumps scares, the film “Arcadian” merits greater recognition. Despite going relatively unnoticed upon its release, this production showcases a notable performance by Nicolas Cage, complemented by impressive newcomers. The stunningly selected shooting locations are strangely captivating, offering a sense of tranquility amidst the terror they depict. If you’ve recently enjoyed “Longlegs,” where Cage portrays the eponymous serial killer, you might be intrigued by another compelling role from him in “Arcadian.” Although his character here differs significantly from that of the Neon Pictures sensation, it is still worth exploring. The release of “Arcadian” on AMC+ could potentially bring the attention it warrants. You can now stream “Arcadian” on AMC+. “Longlegs” is currently playing in cinemas.
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2024-07-18 04:31