The Surprising Meme-Worthy Actor Who Almost Outshined Nicolas Cage in His Bizarre New Comedy Movie

Summary

Writer/director Kristoffer Borgli acknowledges that although Adam Sandler was initially considered for the part, it is undeniable that Nicolas Cage ultimately embodies the essence of the protagonist in Dream Scenario. Cage's deliberate choices bring forth a captivating and artistic depth to the film, drawing from his own personal encounters.

Adam Sandler's recent foray into thriller and drama genres, as seen in Uncut Gems and Hustle, demonstrates his ability to seamlessly blend comedic and dramatic elements, making him a potential fit for Dream Scenario. However, Cage's casting better supports the director's vision for the film, particularly considering his eagerness to explore the "memeification" of his own career.

Although Sandler's involvement could have led to a different film, Cage's presence adds a distinct energy to the surreal and nightmarish elements of Dream Scenario, aligning with his track record of delivering genre-defying performances. With his recent successes, the film promises to be another thrilling chapter in Cage's ongoing comeback.

Writer/director Kristoffer Borgli revealed that, despite Nicolas Cage being the perfect fit for the Oscar-winning movie, there was initially consideration for another A-list actor. The dramedy follows the story of everyman professor Paul Matthews, who becomes the center of attention when he starts appearing in everyone's dreams. However, things quickly spiral out of control. Alongside Cage, the ensemble cast for Dream Scenario includes Julianne Nicholson, Michael Cera, Tim Meadows, Dylan Baker, Kate Berlant, Noah Centineo, Nicholas Braun, and Amber Midthunder.

During an interview with Collider for the movie's Fantastic Fest premiere, Borgli shared insights about the casting process for the quirky comedy. He admitted that Adam Sandler, who is also known for his memes, was initially considered for the role now played by Cage. However, Borgli admitted that looking back, it is impossible for him to imagine anyone else in the part besides Cage. Find out more about Borgli's explanation below:

Looking back, in retrospect, it's impossible for me to unsee Nic in this part. He truly brought the character to life, making it incredibly captivating and intriguing. His portrayal is filled with mesmerizing and wonderfully peculiar choices. Not only is he an exceptionally talented actor, but the mere presence of Nicolas Cage in our culture adds an artistic layer to the movie that is incredibly fascinating. It's evident that he drew upon his own personal experiences to bring depth to the character.

How Dream Scenario Would Be Different With Adam Sandler

The plot of Dream Scenario seems tailor-made for Cage's eccentric acting style and devoted fan base. However, Sandler's recent career choices demonstrate that he could have also excelled in the movie's mix of comedy and drama. His performances in the gripping crime thriller Uncut Gems and the Netflix sports dramedy Hustle, which earned him his first Screen Actor's Guild Awards nomination, showcase his versatility beyond his usual comedic roles.

Nevertheless, if he had taken on a more prominent role in Dream Scenario, the film may have taken a drastically different direction. The initial trailer suggests a shift towards nightmarish horror as Paul's fame spreads globally, indicating that it transcends the confines of a mere absurd comedy. Cage has frequently delved into this blend of genres, demonstrated by his involvement in the action-horror comedy Willy's Wonderland, reminiscent of Five Nights at Freddy's, and his portrayal of the iconic Dracula in the modernized Universal Monsters update, Renfield.

While one could argue that exploring the thriller/horror realm would be a refreshing expansion for Sandler's filmography, Cage's casting in Dream Scenario appears to align more closely with Borgli's vision for the project. Cage himself has shown great excitement in delving into the "memeification" of his career through this movie, deeming it the perfect opportunity to explore his viral trend. With the success he experienced in the self-aware The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent and the early acclaim received from the film's festival premieres, it will be intriguing to see if this surreal comedy proves to be another exhilarating chapter in his ongoing comeback.

Source: Collider