Over the years it seems as though Nicolas Cage has built an insane internet following, while also being resented by much of the general movie going public. Both these factions seem to be motivated by his quirky personality, and odd choice in films (often B-movie, straight-to-DVD garbage). However, with his new film Joe, directed by David Gordon Green, Cage looks to put himself back in the good graces of the regular movie goer, as well as the self-proclaimed cinephiles around (me).
What happens when a teenager from an abusive, broken home connects with good hearted, broken shell of a man? This is what lies at the heart of film, and what really carries it along through some of more unbelievable moments. Gary (Tye Sheridan) is a 15 year old teenager living in a house full of addiction and violence with his parents and younger sister. His father Wade (played by unknown Gary Poulter) is an alcoholic who has no problem beating the hell out of Gary if it means getting alcohol, or money for alcohol. Gary's mother simply stands by while this happens, and his sister is too scared to speak. Gary ends up getting a job working for Joe (Nicolas Cage), and forms a friendship and father/son relationship that he clearly yearns for.
Cage is fantastic as the titular Joe, bringing a rough honest performance to the screen. Joe is someone who we all like, but clearly has something much darker going on. Cage simply owns the screen whenever he is there, giving his best performance since Adaptation. I think because the vitriol is so strong towards him, people forget that Nic Cage can be an amazing actor. He's clearly not the action star he wants to be, but is at home giving toned down natural performances. I'd love to see him have the type of career comeback that Matthew McConaughey (my spirit animal) recently completed.
Gary Poulter, a local homeless man where the film was shooting, also gives a wonderfully authentic performance as Wade. Perhaps it is due to his life experiences, but he owns being a drunk. He shows that he doesn't hate his lifestyle, but knows it's bad. And loves Gary, but also completely hates him. Ronnie Gene Blevins also gives a weirdly unhinged performance as Willie-Russell, an old friend/enemy of Joe's, and someone who has taken a special interest in Gary.
However the film is really carried by Tye Sheridan, who some may remember from his fantastic performances in Tree of Life and Mud. This kid is quickly proving he's got the acting chops to become a major talent in Hollywood, reminding me of a young Joseph Gordon Levitt. As Gary, Sheridan gives a wonderfully multi-faceted performance of a kid just wanting to be a kid, searching for guidance, but knowing the harsh reality that he will always have to be the man in his family. His natural charisma and ability to play of Cage really ground the film, and gives a beautiful friendship between Gary and Joe.
Much credit should go to David Gordon Green, as well. While he has made his money directing Judd Apatow comedies such as Pineapple Express, Your Highness and The Sitter, as well as many episodes of the HBO comedy Eastbound and Down, it's been nice to see him return to his indie roots with Joe and his last film, the criminally underseen, Prince Avalanche. His style and direction really come through in setting the tone for the film, and I can't wait to see what he's doing next. (Hint: It's a movie called Manglehorn with Al Pacino).
Ultimately, Joe is a film you should check out. It does suffer, greatly, at times from pacing issues, and certain characters or plot points could have been completely written out in favour of more Gary and Joe, but it still works. A film that should be seen by lovers of Nicolas Cage (looking at you Ian Kuiack), and those who doubt he can still do great work.
Grade: B
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