Primal (2019) - A Wild Ride with Cage and a White Jaguar

 

Primal, a 2019 action-thriller directed by Nick Powell and headlined by the inimitable Nicolas Cage, delivers exactly what one might expect from a Cage film – a wild and entertaining ride filled with over-the-top action and a touch of eccentricity.

The film's premise revolves around Frank Walsh (Nicolas Cage), a hunter and collector who captures a priceless white jaguar for a zoo. However, things take a thrilling turn when the ship transporting Walsh's precious cargo also houses a political assassin (played by Kevin Durand) facing extradition to the United States. As the assassin breaks free, Walsh must employ his skills to capture him alive, creating a suspenseful and action-packed narrative.

Let's address the elephant in the room – Nicolas Cage. Love him or loathe him, Cage brings his signature energy to Primal. As a fan of Cage's work, I approached this film with the expectation of a fun, albeit not award-winning, experience. And Primal delivers on that front. Cage's portrayal of Frank Walsh is a delightful mix of intensity and absurdity, making him a compelling and entertaining lead.

Adding to the film's appeal is the presence of Kevin Durand, who consistently delivers strong performances. His role as the political assassin adds depth to the storyline, and his chemistry with Cage on screen enhances the overall experience.

However, not all the cast members shine equally. Famke Janssen, unfortunately, feels underutilized and comes off as mere window dressing. Her character lacks the depth and development seen in the central figures, leaving a bit to be desired in terms of the overall ensemble cast.

In essence, Primal is a film that doesn't take itself too seriously. It's a rollercoaster of action, absurdity, and Nicholas Cage being, well, Nicholas Cage. If you're a fan of Cage's unique style and enjoy mindless entertainment, this movie delivers on that front. However, if you're seeking a profound cinematic experience or Academy Award-worthy performances, you might want to look elsewhere. Primal is a wild ride that embraces its own brand of madness, and in the end, it's all about enjoying the thrill.