When you catch Novocaine in theaters, you’re greeted not by the usual company logos or flashy title cards, but by a message from three cast members. They express gratitude to the audience for experiencing the film in theaters—the “way it was meant to be seen.” While I firmly support the theater experience, Novocaine is the kind of film that actually thrives when viewed in the comfort of your own home. In fact, the movie is tailor-made for a living room setting, and there’s nothing wrong with that.
The film centers on Nathan Caine (Jack Quaid), an introverted assistant bank manager with a rare congenital condition known as anhidrosis congenital insensitivity to pain with anhidrosis (CIPA), which makes him incapable of feeling physical pain. Nathan lives a monotonous life, but things take a hopeful turn after a night out with his work crush, Sherry Margrave (Amber Midthunder). However, this brief hope is shattered when Nathan’s bank is robbed, and Sherry is taken hostage. With little hesitation, Nathan embarks on a mission to rescue her, using his inability to feel pain as an edge against the criminals.
The concept of a regular person thrust into a dangerous situation for love is hardly groundbreaking for an action movie. However, Nathan’s condition adds an intriguing twist. Typically, action heroes breeze through fights without consequence, but Novocaine addresses this by providing a valid reason why Nathan doesn’t feel pain, which keeps the stakes grounded in an otherwise unreal world.
If it weren’t for Jack Quaid’s performance, I’m not sure Novocaine would have had the same impact. Quaid’s humor and charm are central to the film’s success. His portrayal is reminiscent of Ryan Reynolds in Deadpool, but with a more likable, less obnoxious edge. Quaid effortlessly balances awkwardness with coolness, creating a hero who’s both endearing and capable. His performance is a highlight that will likely resonate with audiences.
2025 promises to be a career-defining year for Quaid, with multiple films in the works. However, the true standout performance in Novocaine comes from Jacob Batalon (known for his role as Ned in the Spider-Man franchise). Batalon plays Roscoe, Nathan’s online friend who becomes his confidant during this perilous journey. Batalon’s portrayal of the goofy but lovable sidekick is a joy to watch, reminiscent of Lil Rel Howery in Get Out—his first on-screen entrance is particularly memorable, complete with biker gear and a goofy grin.
No action movie is complete without its fight sequences, and Novocaine doesn’t disappoint. The action is gory and over-the-top, yet strangely mesmerizing. The film’s choreography and camerawork enhance the experience, creating scenes that feel straight out of a comic or video game. The opening action sequence, where Nathan is tossed around in a kitchen, is a personal favorite. The camera follows his every move with dizzying precision, capturing the chaos of the scene in a creative and immersive way.
As the film progresses, Nathan continues his mission through a video-game-style progression, facing off against various villains in increasingly absurd scenarios. The added element of his inability to feel pain makes for some uniquely entertaining moments. However, as the film continues, the action becomes predictable, losing some of its initial thrill. The sequences, while still fun, begin to feel formulaic, but this doesn’t entirely detract from the movie’s enjoyment.
At its core, Novocaine is about fun. The film excels at entertaining its audience but doesn’t break new ground in any particular area. The plot, a familiar tale of a man fighting for the woman he loves, lacks originality. The villain is more comedic than menacing, and the action sequences, while creative, eventually fall into a predictable pattern. The film could also stand to be shorter, as its pacing drags in the later stages.
For all its flaws, Novocaine shines as the perfect “living room movie.” While watching the over-the-top violence and humor on the big screen may be entertaining, the film is better suited to a relaxed, home-viewing experience. Picture yourself lounging on the couch, enjoying some snacks, and watching this fun flick with friends. It’s the kind of movie you’ll put on during a casual get-together or when you’re flipping through channels on a lazy afternoon. When the credits roll, you’ll find yourself thinking, “That was pretty fun.”
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