‘Arcadian’ Review (Nicolas Cage, Jaeden Martell) – CinemAddicts

CinemAddicts co-host Eric Holmes and I are Nicolas Cage fans, and this week we had the chance to check out Arcadian. Directed by Benjamin Brewer, the film centers on Paul (Cage) and his two sons Thomas (Maxwell Jenkins) and Joseph (Jaeden Martell). The tight knit family is attempting to survive on an Earth that has been overrun by ravenous creatures!

Each night, Paul (Nicolas Cage) and his sons live in a boarded up house that serves as their protection from these creatures. When Thomas (Maxwell Jenkins) accidentally breaks his curfew, things take a turn for the worse and the family ultimately fights for their survival. Sadie Soverall co-stars as Charlotte, a neighbor who bonds with Thomas.

Arcadian’s main strengths lie in solid performances by all the actors. This is one of the more subdued roles for Cage (it’s about as subtle as his work in Joe). Jaeden Martell’s Joseph is the brains of the family, and he views the creatures in a somewhat different manner than his loved ones.

Eric and I gave Arcadian three stars. We both recommend the movie, and it was an entertaining enough experience. That said, I expected a bit more from Arcadian. The movie begins with an eye opening prologue as we are introduced to Paul. It’s a scene that could have been straight out of 1917 or Children of Men. Unfortunately, that was my favorite part of the movie.

Arcadian’s third act is well done on an action level, but the storyline’s more resonant moments simply didn’t land for me. I still recommend the movie, which should bring extra value if you are a big Cage fan.

Check out our review of Arcadian on Apple Podcasts and YouTube:

Let us know your thoughts on Arcadian! Movie hits theaters April 12.