Best Nicolas Cage Horror Movies

Highlights

From Mom and Dad to Longlegs, Nicolas Cage shines in horror films with unhinged and captivating performances.
Willy’s Wonderland showcases Cage as a competent and grizzly hero in a parody of the popular game Five Nights at Freddy’s.
Mandy offers a surreal revenge tale that highlights Cage’s underrated acting skills in a horrifying new light.

As a lifelong fan of Nicolas Cage’s electrifying performances, I must say that his portrayal of Dracula in this movie is nothing short of mesmerizing! With his rich acting background and knack for bringing even the most unlikely characters to life, he breathes new life into the classic vampire.

Nicolas Cage has always been a big name in horror and movies in general, infamous for movies such as Wicker Man, and renown for his roles in Con Air and Face/Off. Lately, he has proven he can really shine in the horror genre after appearing in the critically successful Longlegs, and even appearing in the multiplayer horror game Dead by Daylight as himself.

As a die-hard fan, I can’t help but marvel at Nicolas Cage’s extensive portfolio, which includes a fair share of chilling horror titles, many of them leaning towards the comical side of terror. But rest assured, whenever he takes on a role, you can count on him giving it his all – his unwavering dedication as an actor is evident. Here are some of his top performances in the horror genre, leaving us eagerly anticipating what terrifying masterpiece he’s bound to bring next.

6 Mom and Dad

An Unhinged Performance as a Deranged Dad

Director: Brian Taylor
Release Date: January 19th, 2018
Runtime: 83 minutes

Despite the idyllic appearance of the Ryan family, they too encounter significant problems. However, the portrayal of the parents’ relationship veers towards an excessive depiction of discord. The already stressed Ryan family reached a crisis point when a mysterious static interference began emanating from radios and televisions, causing the parents to become violently enraged towards their own children.

Nicolas Cage brilliantly plays Brent Ryan, a man grappling with a midlife crisis before this event, but now his behavior is intensified, as he becomes obsessed with the idea of harming his own children. His portrayal is outstanding, and the audience genuinely worries for the safety of the children due to his bloodthirsty demeanor. In a surprising turn of events, Brent Ryan’s grandparents appear on the scene, sharing the same dark intention of ending their family lineage.

5 Renfield

Watch Nicolas Cage’s Take on the Legendary Count

Director: Chris McKay
Release Date: April 14th, 2023
Runtime: 93 minutes

Numerous actors have showcased their acting abilities by portraying the iconic Count Dracula, a character that has become public domain and is often featured in video games, television series, and films. One such example is “Renfield,” where Nicolas Cage assumes the role of the menacing and perilous vampire.

In the film, Renfield, who once served Dracula by luring victims for feeding and slaughter, has grown tired due to both the monotonous tasks and the mistreatment he receives. Seeking solace, Renfield joins a support group for people trapped in harmful relationships. Despite his duty to obey Dracula’s commands, Renfield finds himself encountering legal authorities. Although Nicholas Hoult is the main character, Nicolas Cage delivers an outstanding performance as Dracula that steals the show whenever he appears on screen, offering a unique portrayal of the captivating vampire.

4 Color Out of Space

Based on the Lovecraft Story of the Same Name

Director: Richard Stanley
Release Date: January 24, 2020
Runtime: 111 minutes

Fans of horror movies, particularly those who appreciate the genre of body horror, will immediately associate it with “The Thing”. However, a fresh competitor has emerged in this category. While it may not dethrone “The Thing” as the ultimate and most revolting body horror movie, it’s definitely worth watching for an enjoyable dose of grisly terror.

A space meteorite hits the borderlands of the Gardner family farm, causing various troubles like tainted water supply and wilting crops, dramatically affecting the family. The farm animals amalgamate into large masses, and even Mother Teresa and her son Jack undergo changes, becoming more aggressive. The deterioration of the family’s mental state and their bizarre transformations into monstrous forms are terrifying to watch. Nicholas Cage delivers a bone-chilling performance as the father, turning against his own daughter in this harrowing tale.

3 Willy’s Wonderland

The Five Nights at Freddy’s Movie Fans Deserved

Director: Kevin Lewis
Release Date: February 12th, 2021
Runtime: 88 minutes

Prior to the release of Blumhouse’s “Five Nights at Freddy’s” film, another movie titled “Willy’s Wonderland” had already been released. This film seems to have drawn inspiration from, or even be a parody of, the widely recognized horror video game series. In this movie, Nicolas Cage portrays a janitor who is largely silent at the eponymous entertainment center. However, he’s not alone, as a gang of teenagers intrude and encounter the malevolent animatronics housed within.

In the realm of gaming, I’ve got to admit, Nicolas Cage delivers an authentic and convincing hero in Willy’s Wonderland. While he doesn’t pull out all the stops to rescue the teens, even leaving one behind during a fight for a brief, humorous break. It’s a blend of chilling and chuckle-worthy, but make no mistake, Willy’s Wonderland nails animatronic horror perfectly.

2 Mandy

A Surreal Revenge Mission

Director: Panos Cosmatos
Release Date: September 14, 2018
Runtime: 121 minutes

In the film industry, tales of revenge are nothing unfamiliar, often serving as the core theme for numerous action films like the “John Wick” series. However, the movie “Mandy” offers a unique and chilling twist on this trope. The character played by Nicolas Cage, Red, is pushed to the limits of his mental stability in this film.

In this film titled “Mandy,” Red’s beloved wife, who is also the titular character, falls victim to a cult called Children of the New Dawn. She is brutally killed in front of him. This tragic event ignites Red’s thirst for vengeance, leading to a climax where they drive menacingly through an otherworldly setting while exchanging maniacal grins. The movie leaves a profound impact on viewers, serving as a testament to Nicolas Cage’s underrated acting abilities.

1 Longlegs

One of the Most Chilling Horror Movie Villains

Director: Osgood Perkins
Release Date: July 12th, 2024
Runtime: 101 minutes

Longlegs took the horror movie industry by storm, securing itself as a legendary movie that will go down in history alongside titles such as Silence of the Lambs, and it is clear to see why. FBI detective Lee Harker is put on the case of tracking down the serial killer who calls himself Longlegs, portrayed as none other than Nicolas Cage.

Typically, Nicolas Cage is known for parts in horror-comedy flicks or unintentionally humorous horror movies. However, the movie “Longlegs” allows him to venture beyond these roles, as it is one of the most haunting films available. His performance as the murderous Longlegs is genuinely chilling and engrossing, demonstrating that Cage has the talent for leading roles in more serious horror productions. This role is arguably his best yet, and we hope it will pave the way for Cage to take on even more terrifying horror projects in the future.

2024-08-02 09:33