"I am in the process of reinventing myself. I am returning to my roots, which is independently spirited, dramatic characters. I had taken a year off to re-evaluate everything I had done, different kinds of performances I had done...I wanted to find something where I could use my life experience, my memories, and my emotions." Actor Nicolas Cage


The character of Colin Pryce in "The Runner" is an example of the type of role Cage is discussing above. The film was shot in New Orleans, where Cage used to own a home. Pryce has complicated relationships with his wife and father, as well as problems with alcohol and infidelity. These lead to dramatic confrontations, but ones that are rooted in reality.

Cage is frequently criticized for his choice of roles. "Pay The Ghost", his follow-up film which was released last month, is not getting good reviews. Actors have to work, however, and critics should perhaps be focused more on the American film industry and the types of movies it now produces. This past week, Warner Bros. announced with great fanfare a trio of films which will star Godzilla, including one which will feature King Kong. In this environment, when studios are only willing to spend money on "franchise" movies (the cinematic equivalent of fast food), is it any wonder that actors are suffering? Computer generated characters are taking precedence over live actors, so it is no wonder that there is a shortage of good dramatic roles.

Many actors, even Al Pacino, have turned to television, or original programming on Netflix and Amazon, in order to continue working. Cage has, so far, resisted this trend. Either he has not been offered these roles, or he still believes in the art form of the feature film. Do dramatic films featuring live actors have a future in American film? This is an issue that will continue to be discussed on the Drama Movies page.


Here's the latest article from the Drama Movies site at BellaOnline.com.

The Runner Film Review
A Louisiana congressman clashes with the oil industry after the catastrophic Deepwater Horizon spill in 2010. When Colin Pryce is forced to resign after the press uncovers an adulterous affair, will his ambition triumph over his idealism? Nicolas Cage stars as "The Runner".

http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art8358.asp

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Angela K. Peterson, Drama Movies Editor
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