Nicolas Cage has revealed he "could have died" while filming his new movie, The Surfer. The 61-year-old star had to learn to surf for his role in the film—a task that almost didn't end well. "We had weather conditions and believe it or not, shark reports and things, all that s**t," he told Entertainment Weekly. "I have surfed, but every time I've attempted surfing, I've been pounded to smithereens. I surfed down on Sunset Beach. When I was trying to learn, my teacher gave me a shortboard. I said, 'Look, I want a longboard.'" However, even the size of the board didn't help Nicolas master the skill. "I just got pounded and literally got stuck in the rip tide, and they said they saw my board, they call it 'tombstone,' like that triangle top," he admitted. "I'm climbing up the leash as I'm somersaulting, and I could have died."
The actor, who has a two-year-old daughter, August, as well as adult sons, Weston, 34, and Kal-El, shared how his role as a father made him nervous about tackling big waves. "Now I have a young kid, I don't know if I want to do it anymore," he said. "The goal is to retire, surf, drink red wine, and eat spaghetti." Cage's experience reflects a growing concern for safety among parents, especially when engaging in potentially dangerous activities.
The Surfer, released in theaters on May 2, 2025, features Cage as a nameless businessman who attempts to buy back his childhood home in Australia, only to find the property protected by a gang of local bullies. The film, directed by Lorcan Finnegan and written by Thomas Martin, showcases Cage's character navigating the treacherous waters of both surfing and local hostility.
While speaking about his preparations for the film, Cage noted that his surfing lessons ended up being more dangerous than anticipated. "I have surfed, but every time I've attempted surfing, I've been pounded to smithereens," he reiterated. The filming took place in Yallingup, Western Australia, where conditions could be treacherous. Cage humorously lamented that paparazzi only captured his training moments when he was falling off the board: "They didn't get the one shot of me standing on the board!"
Despite his struggles with surfing, Cage's determination to master the skill is commendable. "I just got pounded and literally got stuck in the rip tide, and they said they saw my board, they call it 'tombstone,' like that triangle top," he explained. This harrowing experience highlighted the dangers of surfing, particularly in Australia, known for its powerful waves and unpredictable conditions.
In addition to the physical challenges, Cage's character in The Surfer faces psychological battles as well. The film's narrative draws parallels between Cage's real-life experiences and those of his character, who is pushed to his breaking point by the local bullies. These themes resonate with audiences, as they explore the struggles of reclaiming one's past amidst contemporary challenges.
Critics have noted the film's unique blend of psychological thriller and dark humor. Film critic Xan Brooks described The Surfer as a "wild, rocky, beach-bound B-movie that pits a hapless, frazzled loner against a band of local bullies." He highlighted the character's journey as one of both physical and existential struggle, stating, "Before you surf you must suffer, he is told by the bullies, just at the point when his holiday goes to hell."
As the film progresses, Cage's character finds himself increasingly isolated, confronting both the locals and his own fears. The surreal approach of the film, filled with zooms, close-ups, and unlikely edits, documents the protagonist's unraveling as he becomes more like the locals who torment him. Cage's performance is characterized by his signature intense choices, showcasing his ability to embody complex emotions.
In a recent interview, Cage expressed a desire to create films that his young daughter can enjoy. "Now I have a young kid, I don't know if I want to do it anymore," he reflected, indicating a shift in his priorities as a father. This sentiment resonates with many parents who grapple with balancing their passions with their responsibilities.
Although Cage faced significant challenges while preparing for his role, he hasn't ruled out giving surfing another go in the future. His determination to continue pushing his limits is evident. "The goal is to retire, surf, drink red wine, and eat spaghetti," he stated, a testament to his enduring spirit and love for life.
In conclusion, Nicolas Cage's experiences while filming The Surfer highlight not only the physical demands of acting but also the emotional complexities that come with parenthood. As audiences flock to theaters to see his latest performance, they are reminded of the lengths to which actors go to bring their characters to life, often at great personal risk. Cage's journey is a reflection of his dedication to his craft and his evolving role as a father, making The Surfer a compelling watch for fans and families alike.
