Color Out of Space (2019)

Directed by: Richard Stanley | 110 minutes | horror, science fiction | Actors: Nicolas Cage, Joely Richardson, Madeleine Arthur, Elliot Knight, Tommy Chong, Brendan Meyer, Julian Hilliard, Josh C. Waller, Q’orianka Kilcher, Melissa Nearman, Amanda Booth, Keith Harle

You can say what you want about Nicolas Cage, but he is productive. The work ethic of the eccentric actor is commendable. He makes an average of three films a year, something that his colleagues do not imitate. It should be noted that Cage’s financial situation can also be described as ‘special’. The US tax authorities and other creditors are after him, so the actor works a lot to pay off his debts. Cage is not very picky when it comes to roles. As long as it pays off. Over the years, this has provided him with quite a full resume. Most of his recent work is pet. Bread jobs. Every now and then the eccentric hints that he is indeed a good and unique actor. ‘Color Out of Space’ is one such project that Cage can be proud of. No other actor could have performed this role so beautifully. After ‘Mandy’ and ‘Joe’, this is yet another proof that Cage can be a good actor if he wants to.

‘Color Out of Space’ revolves around Nathan Gardner (Cage). This man seeks peace with his family. When a meteorite lands in the garden, a lot changes. This alien stone leaves its mark on family life. In a nasty and negative way.

Director Richard Stanley has made a special film. He was inspired by the work of HP Lovecraft, an iconic horror author. Cage makes the changes his character goes through nice and thick as only he can. In this setting – cosmic horror and alien entities – that works very well. What also works well are the practical special effects. A lot of work is done with rubber and the like and not with CGI. It gives this movie its charm.

However, ‘Color Out of Space’ is not for everyone. The hazy story and narrative style – Stanley sometimes jumps from one thing to another and wants to show too much in a short time – requires patience. Lovecraft fans will certainly appreciate this film. It is an ambitious film adaptation of a much-loved book. Cage fans should not miss this production. Their hero is finally back on track!