Nicolas Cageis a name that needs no introduction. The actor has been a fixture in Hollywood for decades, captivating audiences with his unique brand of intensity and over-the-top performances. With a career spanning over four decades, Cage has appeared in a wide range of films, from action blockbusters to indie dramas.
But before we dive into the list, let’s take a closer look at the man himself.
Nicolas Cage was born Nicolas Kim Coppola in Long Beach, California in 1964. Yes, that Coppola - he’s the nephew of director Francis Ford Coppola. Cage started acting in high school and made his film debut in the 1982 romantic dramaFast Times at Ridgemont High. From there, he went on to appear in a string of movies in the 1980s, includingRumble Fish,The Cotton Club, andMoonstruck.
Cage really hit his stride in the 1990s, starring in a series of blockbuster hits likeCon Air,Gone in 60 Seconds, andThe Rock. He also earned critical acclaim for his roles in films likeLeaving Las Vegas, for which he won an Academy Award for Best Actor, and Adaptation, for which he was nominated for a Best Supporting Actor Oscar.
Related:10 Understated Nic Cage Classics That Deserve a Second Look
Throughout his career, Cage has proven himself to be a versatile actor, willing to take on a wide range of roles. He’s played everything from a romantic lead to an action hero to a villain, and he’s always brought his unique energy to every role he’s played.
So, without further ado, let’s take a look at the highest-rated Nicolas Cage movies on Rotten Tomatoes. These movies represent the best of what Cage has to offer, and they’re definitely worth checking out if you’re a fan of the actor. Whether you’re in the mood for action, drama, or something in between, there’s something for everyone on this list.
15Joe (2013) – 86%
Our first entry on the list is the 2013 dramaJoe, which follows the relationship between a troubled ex-con (played by Cage) and a 15-year-old boy who has been abandoned by his family. The film received critical acclaim for its raw and powerful performances, with many praising Cage’s portrayal of the complex and troubled Joe.
Throughout the film, we see the evolution of the relationship between Joe and the boy, as the two form an unlikely bond and help each other heal from their respective traumas. As the film progresses, we see Joe struggling to confront his past and make amends for his mistakes, all while fighting to protect the young boy from the dangers of their hardscrabble community.
Overall,Joeis a poignant and moving film that showcases Cage’s range as an actor, and is a must-see for fans of the actor or anyone looking for a powerful and emotional drama.
14Color Out Of Space (2019) – 86%
Up next on the list is the 2019 horror filmColor Out of Space, which follows the story of a family who is terrorized by a mysterious and otherworldly force that invades their home. Cage stars as the father of the family, Nathan Gardner, who becomes increasingly paranoid and unhinged as the strange occurrences begin to escalate.
As the family struggles to survive against the increasingly bizarre and deadly occurrences, Nathan is forced to confront the demons of his past and the secrets that have long haunted him. Throughout the film, Cage delivers a gripping and intense performance as a man pushed to the brink by unimaginable horrors.
Overall,Color Out of Spaceis a wild and terrifying ride that is sure to keep you on theedge of your seat. With its mind-bending plot and standout performances, this film is a must-see for fans of horror and science fiction.
Our next entry on the list is the 2009 crime dramaThe Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call - New Orleans, which follows the story of a corrupt and drug-addicted police lieutenant (played by Cage) as he investigates a series of murders in post-Katrina New Orleans.
Throughout the film, we see the lieutenant’s descent into madness as he becomes increasingly unhinged and erratic, driven by his addiction and the pressure of the case. Cage delivers a powerhouse performance as the deeply flawed and troubled lieutenant, bringing a level of intensity and vulnerability to the role.
Overall,The Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call- New Orleansis a gripping and raw crime drama thatshowcases Cage’s talentas an actor and is not to be missed.
12Peggy Sue Got Married (1986) – 86%
The 1986 comedy-dramaPeggy Sue Got Marriedfollows the story of a middle-aged woman (played by Kathleen Turner) who is transported back in time to her high school days. Cage stars as the young version of the woman’s husband, Charlie, who she must confront and come to terms with to understand their present-day relationship.
Throughout the film, we see Peggy Sue navigate the challenges and triumphs of her high school years, all while trying to come to grips with the complexities of her marriage. Cage delivers a charming and humorous performance as the young Charlie, adding levity to the film’s more poignant and emotional moments.
Overall,Peggy Sue Got Marriedis a heartwarming and nostalgic comedy-drama that is sure to delight fans of Cage and those looking for a feel-good film.
11The Unbearable Weight Of Massive Talent (2022) – 87%
The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talentis a 2022 meta-comedy film that sees Nicolas Cage playing a fictionalized version of himself. Desperate to prove that he is still a viable leading man, Cage finds himself accepting an offer to star in a new film alongside the actor he has long idolized, played by Pedro Pascal. However, things quickly spiral out of control as Cage becomes consumed by the pressure to live up to his own hype and the demands of his character, leading to a series of outrageous and over-the-top scenarios involving the CIA.
In this film, Cage delivers a performance that is equal parts hilarious and heartfelt. He perfectly captures the internal struggle of a has-been actor trying to reclaim his place in the spotlight, all while poking fun at his own reputation and career choices. The film also features a number of celebrity cameos and references to Cage’s real-life roles, making it a must-see for any die-hard Cage fan.
Related:The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent Review: Nicolas Cage Makes a Movie
10Raising Arizona (1987) – 90%
This classic comedy-drama film follows the story of a couple, H.I. and Edwina, who are unable to have children of their own. Desperate for a family, they decide to kidnap one of the quintuplets of a wealthy furniture tycoon. Nicolas Cage stars as H.I., a prisoner who has recently been released on parole and is trying to turn his life around.
Cage’s performance inRaising Arizonais aperfect balanceof humor and heart, and his chemistry with co-star Holly Hunter is undeniable. The film is a wild and wacky ride that’s sure to have you laughing and rooting for the unconventional family at the center of the story.
9Mandy (2018) – 90%
This dark and surreal horror-thriller follows the story of Red, a lumberjack played by Nicolas Cage, who is on a mission of revenge after the love of his life is brutally murdered. The filmMandytakes place in the Pacific Northwest in the 1980s and features some truly trippy visuals that add to the film’s intense and otherworldly atmosphere.
Cage gives a truly unforgettable performance as Red, bringing a raw and emotional depth to the character. The film’s unique blend of horror, drama, and fantasy make it a must-see for fans of the genre, and Cage’s performance only adds to its power.
8Adaptation (2002) – 91%
InAdaptation, Nicolas Cage plays a fictionalized version of himself, as well as his twin brother, Charlie Kaufman. Kaufman is a struggling screenwriter who is tasked with adapting a book about orchids into a film. As he struggles with writer’s block, he becomes increasingly desperate and begins to lose touch with reality.
Cage’s dual role in the film is a tour de force, and he manages to bring both of his characters to life in unique and distinct ways. The film is a clever and self-referential look at the creative process, and Cage’s performance is both hilarious and poignant.
7Leaving Las Vegas (1995) – 91%
Leaving Las Vegasis a heartbreaking and poignant drama about love and addiction. Cage stars as Ben Sanderson, a screenwriter who has hit rock bottom and decides to move to Las Vegas to drink himself to death. While there, he meets a prostitute named Sera, played by Elizabeth Shue, and the two form an unlikely bond.
Cage’s performance inLeaving Las Vegasis raw and powerful, and he brings a sense of vulnerability and humanity to the character of Ben. The film is a heart-wrenching look at the devastating effects of addiction, and Cage’s performance only adds to its emotional impact.
6Teen Titans Go! To the Movies (2018) – 91%
Teen Titans Go! To the Moviesis a superhero animated film with a 91% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. In this fun and action-packed adventure, the Teen Titans set out to prove that they are just as deserving of their own blockbuster movie as any other superhero. Along the way, they encounter a variety of obstacles and must work together to overcome them.
Nicolas Cage voices the character of Superman in this movie, bringing his unique energy and enthusiasm to the role. His performance is sure to delight fans of the Teen Titans and newcomers alike.
