Nicolas Cage Reflects on His Eclectic Career, Considering Retirement

Nicolas Cage shares his thoughts on his favorite roles, acting styles, and his pending retirement, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing family and exploring new formats beyond film.

Nicolas Cage, an enigmatic figure known for his eccentric performances and eclectic career, has shared his insights on his favorite roles, acting methods, and his contemplation of retirement. In a recent interview with the Wall Street Journal, Cage revealed his preference for Castor Troy from "Face/Off" as one of his most memorable characters.

Throughout his illustrious career, Cage has showcased his versatility, from his Oscar-winning portrayal of a dying alcoholic in "Leaving Las Vegas" to action-packed roles in films such as "Con Air" and "The Rock." However, he credits his performance in "Moonstruck" as a pivotal moment in his career, demonstrating his willingness to embrace over-the-top and unrestrained acting.

Nicolas Cage Reflects on His Eclectic Career, Considering Retirement

Cage's unique approach to acting, which he has termed "nouveau shamanic" and "Western Kabuki," involves harnessing his imagination and embracing a heightened reality on screen. He believes that acting encompasses a wide spectrum of styles, from naturalistic performances to more experimental and theatrical approaches.

In recent years, Cage has gravitated towards horror films, such as "Mandy" and "Color Out of Space," as well as indie dramas like "Pig," which earned him critical acclaim. His diverse filmography reflects his continued exploration of different genres and characters.

Nicolas Cage Reflects on His Eclectic Career, Considering Retirement

Reflecting on his early influences, Cage recalls the advice he received from Martin Sheen: "Did you like where you were? And did you like the people you were working with?" This advice, which he initially questioned, has guided his decision-making process throughout his career, prioritizing the experience and the relationships forged on set.

Despite his many successes, Cage has expressed a desire to retire in the future. However, he acknowledges that he has contractual obligations to fulfill and plans to explore other formats, such as television and Broadway. He remains open to continuing his acting career in a limited capacity, balancing his professional pursuits with his personal life.

Nicolas Cage Reflects on His Eclectic Career, Considering Retirement

Cage emphasizes the importance of being present and connecting with his loved ones, particularly his daughter, August Francesca Coppola, who he welcomed with his wife Riko Shibata in 2022. He describes fatherhood as an all-encompassing experience that eclipses his acting career in terms of significance and fulfillment.

As Cage contemplates his future, he remains open to new challenges and opportunities while prioritizing the well-being of his family. The next phase of his life promises to be just as captivating as the journey that has led him to this point.

Nicolas Cage Reflects on His Eclectic Career, Considering Retirement