I have always found Nicolas Cage to be one of cinemas' most interesting actors. Everything from the projects he chooses to his subtle nuances as an actor have made him one of the most polarizing celebrities in Hollywood. Up until now, I have been unfamiliar with his earlier work. As I watch more of his movies, it will be fascinating to see how his career has evolved. My first choice is the 1986 film The Boy in Blue.
The Boy in Blue is the true story of Ned Hanlan, the Canadian sculler who would go on to become the World Champion. This film effectively chronicles Hanlans' (Nicolas Cage) days growing up in Canada, and the events that transpired as he went on to become internationally famous. One of the things that keeps this movie grounded, and not just a puff piece, is that it shows that while Hanlan is the best sculler in Canada, he has trouble competing with the big boys around the world and truly has much to learn. In fact, he does not even win his first race once he leaves Canada. He is even bullied and looked down upon for being an outsider and not having professional training. Again, it is all of these factors, as well as Nicolas Cages' performance, that make this story believable. Other than the fact that it is unclear that Hanlan is not American ( I actually had to look up where he is from), this is a wonderful film about having the strength to accomplish your goals, and the triumph of the human spirit.
Nicolas Cage plays Ned Hanlan. There is a certain recklessness, and yet determination, to Hanlan throughout the beginning of the film. Hanlan enjoys living life and taking risks, but when it comes to sculling he is extremely focused. Cage balances these emotions well, and even makes you laugh at his recklessness not because it is funny, but because he is wasting his potential. However, once he begins to make it big in the United States, his determination is kicked into overdrive. There is also a certain humbleness to Hanlan that Cage plays into quite well. Hanlan is an every-man who is a casual sculler, and is not used to a celebrity status, so when he is greeted with thunderous applause it is awkward for him. Cages' performance is the heartbeat of the film, and he displays all of these emotions in such a well-rounded way.
Christopher Plummer plays Knox. Knox is a wealthy businessman who sees Hanlan as a financial investment, and not as a talented man. He is ruthless, and has Hanlan training vigorously for the championship. It takes a truly great actor to make you hate the character they are playing, and Plummer plays the role with such conviction that every fiber of your being despises his character. He virtually steals every scene that he is in. This is such a deliciously evil performance delivered by an acting titan.
Charles Jarrott is the director of The Boy in Blue. I love what Jarrott brings to this film because he brings you into the world and culture of sculling. The sequences at the Centennial Regatta are a sight to a behold. I also like the way Hanlans' relationships with Knox and Margaret (Cynthia Dale) are handled. One is affecting him in a positive way, and the other is affecting him in a negative way. Jarrott handles these relationships with great care. Of course, the main character arc is about Ned Hanlan, and his story truly has an epic, "zero-to-hero" feel to it. Jarrott does a magnificent job directing this film.
The Boy in Blue is a must-own movie for any film enthusiast. With great characters and a compelling story, this film will truly capture your heart. This film may be hard to find, but if you do, I highly suggest you pick it up.
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