Nicolas Cage is one of Hollywood’s most fascinating and unpredictable actors. From his early career breakthroughs in Moonstruck and Peggy Sue Got Married to his blockbuster hits like Face/Off and National Treasure, to his more recent eclectic roles in Mandy and Renfield, Cage has become a cultural icon for his quirky and often daring performances.
In an appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Cage offered up a list of his five favorite movies he’s acted in, which revealed his love for indie films and working with acclaimed directors. In this article, we’ll explore Cage’s top five favorite movies and what they reveal about his unique approach to acting.
Joe (2013)

Cage’s fifth favorite movie he’s acted in is Joe, a gritty drama directed by David Gordon Green. In the film, Cage plays Joe Ransom, an ex-con who befriends a troubled teenager named Gary played by Tye Sheridan. The film explores themes of masculinity, violence, and redemption, and features some of Cage’s most restrained and nuanced acting.
Cage has said that he loved working with Green on the film and that he appreciated the opportunity to delve into the complex character of Joe Ransom. The film received critical acclaim for its raw and honest portrayal of working-class life in the American South, as well as Cage’s performance.
Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans (2009)

Cage’s fourth favorite movie he’s acted in is Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans, a neo-noir crime drama directed by Werner Herzog.
In the film, Cage plays Terence McDonagh, a corrupt cop who becomes embroiled in a series of criminal schemes. Cage’s performance in Bad Lieutenant is off-kilter and unpredictable, as he portrays a man on the brink of madness.
Cage said he was drawn to the film because of Herzog’s unique vision and desire to create something unconventional and challenging.
Bringing Out the Dead (1999)

Cage’s third favorite movie he’s acted in is Bringing Out the Dead, a gritty drama directed by Martin Scorsese. In the film, Cage plays Frank Pierce, a paramedic working the graveyard shift in New York City.
The film follows Frank as he navigates the chaotic and often tragic world of emergency medical services. Cage’s performance in Bringing Out the Dead is raw and intense, as he captures the desperation and burnout of a man on the edge.
Cage has said that he loved working with Scorsese on the film and that he appreciated the director’s willingness to push him to his limits as an actor.
Mandy (2018)

Cage’s second favorite movie he’s acted in is Mandy, a psychedelic horror film directed by Panos Cosmatos. In the film, Cage plays Red Miller, a man who seeks revenge on a cult after they murder his girlfriend, Mandy.
Mandy has become a cult classic for its visually stunning cinematography and its bizarre and unsettling tone. Cage’s performance in the film is intense and captivating, as he goes through a range of emotions from grief to rage to existential despair.
Cage has called Mandy one of the most unique films he’s ever been a part of, and has praised Cosmatos for his visionary direction.
Pig (2021)

Cage’s number one favorite movie he’s acted in is Pig. This 2021 indie film directed by Michael Sarnoski tells the story of a truffle hunter named Rob (Cage) who lives alone in the Oregon wilderness with his beloved pig. When the pig is stolen, Rob sets out on a journey to get her back, encountering various characters from his past along the way.
Cage’s performance in Pig has been praised as one of his best in years, showcasing his ability to convey deep emotional resonance with minimal dialogue. Cage has said that he was drawn to the film because of its unique story and its exploration of themes like loss, grief, and the human connection to animals.
It’s interesting to note that Cage’s list of favorites includes a mix of independent films and studio productions, showcasing his versatility as an actor. His choices also reveal a preference for films that explore darker and more complex themes, rather than traditional Hollywood fare.
Overall, Nicolas Cage’s top five favorite movies he’s acted in provide a fascinating glimpse into his unique taste and approach as an actor. While some of his most famous films didn’t make the cut, his choices showcase his willingness to take risks and explore unconventional roles. Whether you’re a die-hard Cage fan or just a casual moviegoer, his filmography is definitely worth exploring.