The continuously captivating Nicolas Cage has once again proven his exceptional ability to fully embody his characters. He does this notably well in his recent outlandish portrayal in “Dream Scenario.”
Cage’s Surreal Role as an Internet Sensation
Clothed in subdued grey and bearing a balding head, Cage transforms into Paul Matthews, a Megascopic Science mentor, who bizarrely starts making appearances in people’s dreams. Not talking, not interacting, he simply manifests… and then is gone.
The Audacious Satire: Patent of Kristoffer Borgli
Matthews’ odd presence in dreams spirals him into internet stardom, and that’s just the onset of this incisively original satirical movie touching upon the nuances of online toxicity and cancel culture. “Dream Scenario” is being steered by the Norwegian director Kristoffer Borgli, known for the witty comedy “Sick of Myself.” Compared to his previous work, Borgli demonstrates a maturation in his craft, while ensuring laughter-inducing scenes in this film.
Nicolas Cage’s Unforgettable Performance
Stepping into Paul Matthew’s shoes, Cage gives arguably one of his strongest performances ever. His comic timing is excellent. Initially, Paul seems to be enjoying the wave of viral fame. However, the situation quickly sours as the dream appearances spiral into nightmares, resulting in Paul being cancelled and rejected by the world—except, curiously, in France.
A Tale Addressing Modern Cultural Society
Borgli’s penchant for addressing prevalent societal issues is apparent in his latest film. Suddenly, modern constructs such as trauma coaches, safe spaces, online mobs and scandalous #MeToo moments infiltrate Paul’s life. Paul becomes an outcast, shunned not for any wrongdoing, but merely because of his dream-incursions that stir up enmity among people. In all this, a warning tale begins to emerge.
A Comic Energy and a Cautionary Tale
The way Cage pushes boundaries for this film is both fearlessly original and distinctly amusing. His Paul, an unassuming non-achiever, inadvertently finds fame only to subsequently plunge into public disrepute. Through a spectrum of comedic genius, Cage oscillates between somber subtlety and outright flamboyance. The performance is undeniably his most gripping in recent memory.
