Cast
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Nicolas Cage
as Paul Maguire
Aubrey Shea
as Caitlin Maguire
Rachel Nichols
as Vanessa Maguire
Peter Stormare
as Francis O'Connell
Danny Glover
as Detective St. John
Max Ryan
as Kane
Weston Cage
as Young Paul
Jack Falahee
as Evan
Elena Sanchez
as Lisa
Max Fowler
as Mike
Sarah Ann Schultz
as Miss Russell
Michael McGrady
as Danny Doherty
Judd Lormand
as Mr. White
Dawn Hamil
as Amber
Tom Waite
as Track Suit Russian
Crew
Director
- Paco Cabezas
Writer
- Sean Keller
- Jim Agnew
Producer
- Michael Mendelsohn
- Richard Rionda Del Castro
Reviews
Kenneth Axel Carlsson
A man, Paul Maguire (Nocolas Cage), has quit the business of... crime. However, one day his past catches up to him and his daughter is kidnapped. Now, in order to get her back, he must get the old gang back together and find the people responsible.
Yes, there is more to the movie than this, but if you are planning on watching the movie, I won't spoil your fun. However, thats not to say that this is a big and interesting plot, far from it.
Normally, I love movies with a twist, but a twist is nothing if the cast, script and anything really... is bad. In this case, nothing works. Nicolas Cage (whom I know can act) is two dimensional and anything he does seems false and... without passion. While shooting this movie, he must have figured out that it was a mistake and simply... given up. It shows. It just goes to say, a good actor (and I am not saying that Nicolas Cage is a good actor, but he can act, just watch Adaptation) can't keep a movie going on his own, except if your name is Tom Hardy and the movie is Locke, or Robert Redford and the movie is called All Is Lost. Unfortunately, this movie is called Tokarev, the name of a gun, and that... just... says it all. Really.
I gave this movie two stars, and I'd like to tell you why. Peter Stomare has a small role, and he is always good, and... the ending that goes on beyond the credits... is actually a nice little touch. But everything else. Not worth the bother.
_Last words... don't watch this movie. Unless you like action for the sake of action and cares nothing for acting, interesting characters and... plot._
Dec 25, 2014
John Chard
Ooh look, it's another revenge thriller.
Nicolas Cage stars as a reformed mobster who is forced to go back to his violent ways when his daughter is kidnapped by baddies.
It is what it is really, a Nic Cage starrer that does exactly what the plot synopsis suggests. Does it bring anything new to the revenge formula of genre film making? Absolutely not. But on reflection there are very few that have improved upon originals from as far back as Fritz Lang's Fury in 1936. Sure there is more blood now, more gruesome deaths to put bums on theatre seats, but the majority of them remain soulless, existing only for the point of existing. The market is there for those who either enjoy such genre splatters, or for those who like me just merely wanted a brainless pic to pass the time away with - which of course means leaving said brain at the door.
It's all very preposterous, even insulting at times, but this is actually no worse than some of the more praised revenge thrillers of recent times - but that just makes the point that ultimately the bar hasn't been set high for a considerable time now. So wake up film makers! Give us something new! 5/10
Aug 24, 2016
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Crime/Thriller film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Rage distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Paco Cabezas brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2014, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Rage took approximately 29 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $15.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 98 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 129 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The costume department created over 322 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The musical score contains over 73 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2014, when this film is released:
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Rage shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Kill Bill: Vol. 1, which focuses more on action than character development, Rage subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like A History of Violence and Memento explore similar territory, Rage stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: May 9, 2014
- Runtime: 1h 38m
- Budget: $15,000,000
- Revenue: $2,424,381
Where to Watch
