Nicolas Cage Makes a Strong Comeback: New Thriller Earns Rave Reviews on Rotten Tomatoes

Nicolas Cage is back in one of his most praised film projects in recent years. The upcoming thriller The Surfer has already—nearly a year ahead of its Danish theatrical release—garnered major attention and scored an impressive 88% positive reviews on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 58 critics.

This ranks the film as Cage’s third-highest-rated movie since 2020—trailing only Dream Scenario (91%) and Pig (97%).

Cage in an Existential Beach Crisis

The film is directed by Lorcan Finnegan, known for the dark sci-fi feature Vivarium, with a screenplay by Thomas Martin (Prime Target).

The Surfer had its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2024, where it received praise from both audiences and critics for its sun-drenched paranoia and existential depth.

Cage plays a man returning to his coastal hometown in Australia, only to face local hostility and personal demons. The role is described as classic Cage—both over-the-top and emotionally resonant.

Chaotic, Compelling—With a Side of Coffee Trade

The cast includes Julian McMahon (Charmed), Miranda Tapsell, Nicholas Cassim, and young actor Finn Little. But naturally, Cage dominates the screen.

The reactions, however, are not all unanimous. Emma Kiely from Collider gave the film a 6 out of 10, writing:

“Engaging and genuinely nauseating in a good way”—but she also criticized the film’s focus and plot structure, calling it “chaotic yet fascinating.”

A scene in which Cage trades his watch for a cup of coffee is highlighted as an example of the film’s absurd tone and the protagonist’s mental unraveling.

A Critical Comeback for an Unpredictable Star

After a string of more uneven roles—including Jiu Jitsu (2020) and Gunslinger (5% on RT)—The Surfer appears to be one of Cage’s more ambitious and well-received projects in recent times.

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