Novocaine Review
An action movie can either be one of the most entertaining experiences you’ll ever get or be one of those stereotypical repeats you’ve seen before. However, much to my own surprise, Novocaine was one of those special action movies that will keep you hooked until the very end. It’s got everything you’re looking for: blood, brutality, and everything in between. Does it feel a little bit corny with its concept of a seemingly invulnerable “superhero” since Jack Quaid gave that to us with Hughie Campbell in The Boys? Sure, but Novocaine pushes that to a whole new level by giving Quaid the R-rated big screen spotlight, cementing him as a bonafide action lead.
Novocaine follows Nathan Caine (Jack Quaid), an everyman who’s diagnosed with congenital insensitivity to pain, a disorder where a person can’t feel physical pain. During one day at work, an intense bank robbery takes place, causing his girlfriend Sherry (Amber Midthunder) to be taken hostage. Not letting this introvertedness hold him back, Nate must now rescue Sherry before she’s gone for good.
What makes Novocaine really unique from all of the other action films this year (so far) is its wholesome element. While it’s the main driving factor for what Nate does in the film, the way that it’s initially developed helps us resonate with Nate and Sherry. You can tell that Nate and Sherry really do like each other and Quaid and Midthunder’s on-screen chemistry makes each scene between them feel natural. As they slowly open up to each other (quite literally too), it slowly eases you into this calm state. However, it also knows that this peace can’t last for long, which it adjusts for seamlessly.
Nate wouldn’t have been as compelling if Quaid wasn’t playing him and his performance proves this. Jack Quaid is electrifying, infusing Nate with a bit of that wimpiness from Hughie while also maintaining a sense of drive from his take on Clark Kent/Superman. Nate’s friendship with his online friend, Roscoe (Jacob Batalon), adds to the film’s edgy charm that makes this fun.
Furthermore, the rest of Novocaine’s cast do a great job solidifying the dark humor this film has. Ray Nicholson is terrifying as Simon, who definitely feels like the Jack Torrance of this movie (given Jack Nicholson is his father!) Meanwhile, detectives Mincy (Betty Gabriel) and Coltraine (Matt Walsh) don’t appear as much, but happily play off each other as they joke about sports and betting. However, there are some serious moments they get when they interact with Nate later on that uplift Novocaine’s emotional aspects.
The story of Novocaine itself has low, yet personal, stakes. It might not be as grandiose, in a narrative sense, when compared to other action thrillers. However, the personal stakes Nate faces is enough to create a compelling arc for him to have. The pacing is very concise, always keeping the audience hooked with its quick-time camerawork. Although, there are a few twists and surprises that might be shocking, but are definitely needed as to not misdirect you.
Additionally, Novocaine is incredibly hilarious and will get you laughing at every turn. It’s got a nice blend of physical comedy, anatomical jokes, and switch-ups that have this sharp execution thanks to Quaid and the entire cast. It never lets up on the jokes, but also, thankfully, doesn’t fall into Deadpool meta-humor territory where it could become annoying.
To say Novocaine’s action is intense would be an incredible understatement. Every action scene really packs a punch as Nate, who’s very inexperienced with fighting, finds himself in these situations. They’re all intricately put together, whether he’s fighting in a packed kitchen brimming with food and sharp tools or a house filled with booby traps. The choreography and cinematography really go hand-in-hand, capturing each blow, bruise, and shot Nate takes with ease.
Each one just gets progressively more savage than the previous and it’s a testament to Jacques Jouffret, editor Christian Wagner, and the entire stunt department. Plus, the practical effects on Nate’s injuries are immaculately sickening thanks to all the zoom-ins on nearly every single one. Still, it’s an all-out absolute bloodfest that will definitely satiate your hunger for that brutal action.
Novocaine is an awesome, action-packed film that definitely stands as one of the most phenomenal action thrillers today. While its narrative stakes may be low, it’s got great characters, diverting comedy, and hard-hitting fights that makes it enjoyable. With this film, Dan Berk and Robert Olsen have proven themselves to be capable with the genre; who knows where they’ll go next?
Novocaine releases in theaters on Friday, March 14.
Rating: ★★★★½
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Christopher Gallardo is a freelance entertainment writer and critic. While not running The Reel Roller, Chris can be found writing reviews and breakdowns on all things films and TV. Outside of entertainment writing, he’s currently taking classes for a Bachelor’s of Science with a minor in Digital Media & Journalism. Plus, he loves Percy Jackson, animated films and shows, and Fallout! Follow Christopher on Instagram & X.
Novocaine Review
Novocaine Review
Novocaine Review