2025 gives us Novocaine. It is about a new “everyman” superhero. Or perhaps just a new kind of hero? One that can be broken but can’t feel pain. He might get put down, but he will get back up. He is a little like Matthew Vaughn’s Kick Ass hero. This is his super power. Taking a punch, or several, and winning in the end.
the story
Nate has a genetic disorder that leaves him unable to feel pain. He has lived a somewhat sheltered life as a result. One day, in the bank where he works, he meets Sherry. She also works in the bank. They connect.
On their first date, Sherry learns that his childhood nickname was “Novocaine.” She calls Nate a superhero since he cannot feel pain and she loves his nickname.
They spend time bonding and later the bank is robbed. Sherry is taken hostage and Jack, who suddenly sees his “disability” in a new light, decides to rescue her.
The Main Cast
Jack Quaid is Nate.
Amber Midthunder is Sherry.
Betty Gabriel is Mincy.
Matt Walsh is Coltraine.
Ray Nicholson is Simon.
Evan Hengst is Ben.
Garth Collins as Zeno.
Kick Arse Cameo
Jacob Batalon as Roscoe.
Novocaine BTS
Dan Berk and Robert Olsen direct this screenplay written by Lars Jacobson. DP Jacques Jouffret manages to make each frame pop. The tight shots are screamingly tight and the quality of each scene shines through. Editor Christian Wagner ensures that the cracks and seams do not show. The stunts and the fight scenes are impressive as they are superbly and violently well orchestrated.
Jack Quaid
Jack Quaid is filling the shoes of the late great Jack Lemmon. Quaid has the same ability to portray the average “everyman” characters a’ la Lemmon. He can also amp things up when needed. He can do drama and comedy with equal aplomb. It should come as no surprise considering his mother and father are Meg Ryan and Dennis Quaid.
Without Jack, this film would not have worked nearly so well.
It is funny, intense, painful, silly and sadistic. In all the action scenes, it is difficult to keep from wincing and cringing all in the same breath. Quaid, however, waltzes us through Novocaine almost effortlessly. We believe each and every scene he is in.
*Side note: Is it just me or does Amber Midthunder make you think of Aubrey Plaza, here. Regardless, the Prey actor also sells her part in the film.*
This one works
Novocaine works. Despite the overkill of each violent onslaught Nate endures, we are there with him. His journey to save Sherry and learn more about himself in the process is painful one.
And we love him for it.
There is a lot of dark comedy in Novocaine. Much of it is in poor taste, but we don’t care. We endure it because Quaid is likable, ergo, Nate is likable. The film is also educational.
Who knew that epipens were another form of adrenaline?
The Verdict
Novocaine earns a solid 4.5 stars. It loses half a star due to its relying upon Christmas to be the background to the story. I mean, come on guys! Die Hard, Lethal Weapon, etc, etc. Enough of the crime movies with a Santa background already.
That said, I did enjoy the film and have watched it several times already. Jack Quaid is becoming a firm favorite.
The film is streaming on Paramount +.
The Trailer
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