Nicolas Cage on How His MOM Inspired Horror Role in ‘Longlegs’ (Exclusive)

“Extra” spoke to Nicolas Cage at the L.A. premiere of his new horror thriller film “Longlegs.” He talked about how excited he was about his major transformation, which he found very liberating. Cage also spoke about how his mother unexpectedly was an inspiration and hearing her voice in his head. Plus, he dished on unwinding after heavy days on set by FaceTiming his wife. “Longlegs” is out July 12.

[@forsaken841]

Nic Cage was the national treasure all along

[@jeffk1722]

Been saying it for years! But actually I loved Willy’s Wonderland from a few years ago. That character is “badass” in my idea of the word.

[@StevenBHorrorFan]

😂😂😂😂😂

[@ziigiiziig]

I love him 😭

[@Racoon-Man]

Nic Cage can make a 90 mins toothpaste commercial and I'll still watch it with full price.

[@forsaken841]

@@Racoon-Man check out Left Behind. Pretty much exactly what you’re looking for.

[@rissilient85]

😂😂😂😂

[@margogoldfinch8728]

just look at him, at how he behaves, how he listens to the reporter questions, how he enjoys answering them, the attention he shows, the respect, the openess, the smile and kind, warm attitude., how he loves, what he's doing as a job. God I love this man so, so much!!!!

[@MrBuketman]

It’s been awesome having him back these recent years. Seems grounded and doing mostly cool projects. 🎉

[@meddy1]

Get a life

[@mpacino1224]

@@meddy1 why?

[@ankitverma6123]

Awesome Nicolas cage

[@FoxxE-r1q]

After I die, in the next life I want to come back as Nicholas Cage SO!!!

[@KTBFFHCFC]

Nic sometimes gets it wrong but he always goes hard. Got to love his devotion to his craft.

[@Jeremy252]

Nic Cage doesn't get it wrong. The script gets Nic Cage wrong. He is never the reason a movie is bad. It's always the writing.

[@martinlarrivee5081]

Nic is never wrong about anything. He is God.

[@heywella]

He's a legend and one of my favorite actors of all time. I'd go as far to say that he's one of the best to ever do it.

[@martyhermes5709]

He’s definitely got whatever it is that it takes………and that’s the darn truth ❤

[@KTBFFHCFC]

@@Jeremy252 i guess your correct that he's a bizarre man and shouldn't be put in regular roles but he's definitely been guilty of overacting, particularly with his face 😂

[@underthesun-ml4mu]

He always signs up for the most random films. Some of them not bad, some of them not so good, and others are actually pretty good. He doesn't care whether a movie flops or succeeds. He's just trying to play a character and have fun. That's what I like about him

[@ichigen511]

Very well said. I agree. He's fun to enjoy whether good or bad. Not many artists can say the same.

[@blarghwagurder]

2 years ago in a Reddit AMA, when asked, "What genre of movies do you like best?" he replied, "Independently spirited dramas. And by independently spirited I mean the types of stories and characters that studios are too chicken to touch." I think THAT is his niche, something that feels unashamedly unique, perhaps to a fault, because of the exploration and diversity that you can obtain with something as personal as that, without having to bend the knee to studio politics & E for Everybody ratings. He seems to pick up the films he enjoys reading the most or finds the most challenging because that's where the red meat is for actors such as himself. The experience is what matters, and he knows the experience is why audiences are interested in cinema in the first place.

[@MasonicMafia]

Longlegs and Nosferatu are my most anticipated films of the year. I’m excited

[@Sêtodoemcadacoisa]

Me too

[@Brandedbyfire]

I agree

[@pk251]

saw it opening night last night and it was incredible, just don't go in expecting to be SCARED in like a the conjuring sorta way, it's more unsettling and disturbing but I loved it for that

[@braedoncarreno7444]

So far 1 down. Was not disappointed by long legs very good film. Everyone saying it left them wanting more needs to watch it again. Coming back here once I watch Nosferatu.

[@divine_masculine69]

@@braedoncarreno7444after I saw the trailer for longlegs I was expecting a very scary movie, but it ended being more of a crime movie like prisoners. Still enjoyed it though

[@kezz802]

He was terrifying in this! Honestly, what a job he did.

[@ichigen511]

Yeah even after however movies he's been in he gave this one his best and it fucked me up too. One for the record book.

[@PopcornShowers]

This is the only time I’ve ever felt my heart face in a horror movie. I was so immersed in it! So great job.

[@TheRealPositivePimp]

A true goat, everyone was laughing at him in the past and he’s proving everyone wrong.

[@elpelazo]

When you’re down, depressed, ruined and broke, the system told the people to shoot and bury you… When that happens, and it will at least 2 times in your life, stay strong and fight. Stand! Work! Wait!

[@itsmeaimbot]

he wasn't using his full power Lol

[@Psyfi85]

Miles didn’t laugh. 😏

[@MervinP]

He is a very talented guy. He had to be flop movies in the past to pay for his IRS debt. Since he has paid his debt his IRS debt, then he can choose quality roles.

[@bizmofunyuns6463]

One of the greatest actors of all time. Fight me.

[@Legionofthenight]

Agreed. He gives it 110%

[@simplyemily8251]

He goes balls deep

[@Subsandwich981]

So true. Will always watch anything with him in it, he really gives it his all

[@luisa-wy7co]

hes so good and the most overhated actors in the industry. always found him to be one of the best

[@Twister1980]

​@@simplyemily8251LOL 😂

[@Airestotle09]

One of most under appreciated actors ever

[@howlthehell9791]

He has an Oscar so not that much

[@CrodolookslikeFrody]

Are you kidding me? 😂😂😂

[@Kil13rjay]

it Nicolas cage bro wtf!?!?!

[@Christianlee14]

One of the worst 😂😂

[@andreal.1981]

Cage rules! No matter how good or bad the movie is, he works hard for his money.

[@Pantheragem]

The past year or two, Nic looks happier and healthier than he has in a long time. He's been doing so many wildly different projects (and killin' it in every one), he must be feeling satisfied. God bless him, he deserves it for making so many people happy.

[@chrisingles102]

I will watch every movie he ever does because he just acts regardless of script.

[@margogoldfinch8728]

this exactly why I love him so much. He loves his craft. He loves movies. He is the cinema. Full devotion, full attention. My favorite actor. Period.

[@BlankCheck-kr5ut]

This movie was incredible. I heard everyone in the theater talking about how no one actually knew what it was about, and everyone went in blind, me too. It was insane, I've never seen another like it in my life.

[@NextChrisChan]

When his wife answers he has to say "oh there she is"

[@kindofabigdeal7284]

😂😂😂😂

[@projectg408]

“the almost BIRTHDAY girl” “Nic, my birthday isn’t for 5 months”

[@jaclynbaker351]

There she iiiiiS?!

[@alexrogers9051]

His resurgence has been legendary!

[@HoraceTheLion]

💯

[@lordodin1973]

Incorrect sir - Sir Nicolas Octavious Ronald Alexander lll, needs no resurgence because he never left.

[@chriskoschik391]

He lost a TON of money to Madoff and had to take whatever to pay the bills (yes you can be a "millionaire" and be insolvent lol). Glad to see him getting some spotlight.

[@blackheartaesthetic4432]

@@chriskoschik391he participated in that ponzi scheme?

[@mpacino1224]

00:53 "She wasn't Satanic" he is awesome. Interesting the Director said it's about his mom. And then Nicolas heard his mom. Pretty cool.

[@djbenavit]

I’m so happy to see him get a break….he deserves to be back on top!

[@TheCentipede_21]

His mom must be thrilled 💀💀

[@crimsonngb32]

His mom had to be on something else to inspire this character lmao

[@Starburst514]

She died in 2018, probably why he feels he can do and say this

[@HEAVYHEARTSMUSIC]

He's talking about the more ephemeral stuff, not literal.

[@crimsonngb32]

@@Starburst514 he’d say it if she were alive I bet, he was clearly thanking her for the inspiration

[@suzannerothberg6527]

@@Starburst514 Wrong she passed away in 2022

[@vanmollcraftbeer4516]

nice touch that Oz makes a movie about mommy issues....his dad's most famous character also had a few

[@remc0s]

Norman is a good boy 👵

[@Model_Roe]

Nicolas Cage was traumatised by his mom I can tell lol

[@Starburst514]

He's just like me fr fr ;-;

[@Model_Roe]

@@Starburst514 same lol thats why I got him when he said that

[@gustirezaqqi]

There he is the almost birthday boy 😂

[@mollyscott5892]

Just seen LongLegs in cinema, wow. It was terrifying, but Nic’s performance was absolutely fantastic and a standout, genuinely so scary

[@Viribus420]

I genuinely think he’s the greatest of all time in regards to fearless performances. A very special talent indeed.

[@jensonvaughan]

The passion Nick has for film is second to none.

[@conradslater5920]

Man, haven't been this hyped for a movie in a long time, Longlegs is going to be incredible.

[@Isaia.h]

It is.

[@conradslater5920]

​@@Isaia.hI'm glad to hear it 😁

[@BR-ex9xp]

It was great. Starts out with a bang

[@jeffamunoz]

His best role since Knowing, that was crazyyyyyy

[@swampghost8271]

Have you seen Mandy? He’s insane in that one

[@cheesybirdmess7349]

​@@swampghost8271ahh Mandy, my personal gem of a movie

[@vedyp5992]

So glad he’s finally back on track and do roles that suits him

[@robertstraw9881]

He comes across like a really cool guy.

[@americanitalianisrael4008]

GOOD FOR HIM. I HOPE THIS MOVIE IS HUGE. MR. CAGE DESERVES THIS RECOGNITION. HE IS A SUPERB ACTOR. CAN'T WAIT TO SEE IT.

[@poochyboi]

Nic Cage of this era is incredible.

[@classicthought266]

0:29 the camera man noticed nick missed a spot when shaving

[@afunkymonke]

I had to scroll way too far to see someone mention that dynamic zoom lmao

[@MisterBrimm]

Nicolas Cage's son is in a Black Metal band and he goes to the shows. Fact.

[@damienkphoto]

That’s cool as fuck

[@Antisocial-n2y]

Yeah I heard about that

[@classicthought266]

Love nick cage he never quit even when his career wasn't going too well but he has done some great movies he has a great work ethic seems like a great guy

[@molkisha]

I love him so much!! This man just LOVES THE CRAFT OF ACTING!!! Like he didn’t even care when he was taking random roles in B movies the last few years - to him Acting is Acting - he just kept going - and no matter the script or the director - he ALWAYS gave it his 100%!!! MAD RESPECT TO HIM for that!!! He is so respectful to the interviewer too, like there is no ego involved - man is just happy to be there and happy to talk about the craft and his process!!!! I am hoping this will mark a resurgence in his career and people will be reminded how great of an Actor he really is!!

[@heroicjourney2508]

Why zoom into his lips 😂

[@wingflanagan]

Checking focus, figured B-roll would cover it. Surprise! I always used the subject's eyes.

[@Shionshowa]

Why not

[@TheRealPositivePimp]

I thought the same random af 😂

[@taygracbrina]

he needs to top me

[@thesilentknight4554]

It's art, imitating life🤩

[@Trukap]

Holy shit I also thought of like a middle aged mother while watching his character. My god, he’s a genius.

[@thesilentknight4554]

Since my relatives secluded me from a pool party, I'm gonna spoil LongLegs for them Thursday. Then we'll be even 🤗 (2 days later) That ending felt unfinished, leaving me puzzled with a long list of questions 😵‍💫💥

[@nt7863]

“She wasn’t satanic but she went through a lot”!!!! 😂😂😂

[@mrrational2046]

Great character actor! Great directed film too, the cinematography was beautiful

[@ziigiiziig]

I can't explain why I love him so much, but I think growing up with him in films my entire life is a comforting thing. I hope he doesn't retire anytime soon.

[@heyheyhey33351]

Nicolas Cage seems like a really cool guy. He put a lot into those answers. Not a lot of actors do that. Especially in on-the-fly interviews like this.

[@evelyngigli1649]

One of my all time favorite actors. Even with his crummy roles he put his all into it. National Treasure being one of my faves.

[@MattMarcos]

"I wanted to play a character that wasn't anything like me" Everyone: The character is practically Nick Cage 😂

[@Leebob]

Love Nic Cage man, he’s a very versatile actor

[@Reconseal4050]

Soo....glad Nicolas Cage is back in the spotlight once again! He is definitely a National Treasure!! 👏

[@ljrees1721]

"There she is"

[@user-dr4yr5fu9x]

Iconic

[@charmainejoymanalo3922]

I just watched LONGLEGS!! And I honestly went to see it because of Nicolas Cage. I loved it!!

[@muzzamilullahshariff7876]

Got my tickets for this Thursday!!!!!

[@Harry_Eyeball]

Need to do the same! Hopefully, it's in 35 millimeter film! 😮

[@benbergin538]

Movie was incredible. Definitely worth watching

[@arontamas5639]

In his roles he is such an over the top but in the most subtle way type of actor. Incredible he is capable of doing both at the same time!

[@IsabelleAme88]

I saw the movie tonight and I was thinking “who is that, I know that actor…” and when they had him my fiancé said: “it’s Nicholas Cage!” Well have you ever… it is! Well played!

[@Overlijden1995]

I can't describe how much I hate how people have tried to say that Nicholas Cage is a genuinely bad actor. Has he been in bad movies? Yes, horrendous ones. Quite a lot of them actually. But good, bad, mediocre, terrible or amazing he is ALWAYS the best part of any movie he's in.

[@princepeterwolf]

I thought it was one of the best performances of his career! Just left the theater yesterday and I was wowed at his performance. Bone chilling

[@brydgetburke341]

Why is he hotter today than 5 years ago? And the voice ❤. Damn I've missed him, a great actor

[@Yxrmo]

Nicholas Cage did a great job in this spectaculair movie. Vaguely heard about his bankruptcy, but hope he is doing well

[@Cinemavigilante]

One of the scariest characters ever

[@hannahcross4030]

He is such an amazing actor and has so much range with acting 😭

[@MelissaTheItalian]

I love Nicholas Cage, not only because he has half Italian blood in him but he's been o e of my favorites since I've been a kid

[@B.Grant207]

Gawd dont I love Nick Cage, Longlegs was in my list of movies to watch but then when i found out he was playing in it And even playing a psycho, It shot to number 1.

[@SebastianTapia-zr7nu]

"Maybe you shouldn't drink so much" "Maybe i shouldn't breath either " haha

[@RubeeRoja]

We are looking at the greatest, hardest working, most humbly fantastic actor of all time!! What a time to be alive🎉

[@Robert-rl7rd]

Dream Scenario was the best film of last year soooo good

[@itsamazeofmirrors]

Am I the only one who found it hilarious how casually he said "she wasn't Satanic, but,"

[@ultimateactivitiesdude2685]

This movie was amazing and I almost laughed whenever he was on the screen even when he was supposed to be scary, he was hilarious and the same time 😂

[@viraldusky]

I really liked it when we zoomed in on those lips

[@jonahmotley919]

Raising Arizona, Adaptation, and Joe are all some of my favorite films of all time. Truly one of the Greatest of our time

[@timhoffman1169]

Nic Cage is seriously an amazing actor, I think his public persona or the meme culture behind him may set him up to be a bit of a joke, but dude can seriously act and completely understands his craft. Longlegs was terrifying and Cage helped deliver one of the best serial killer roles I've seen in quite some time.

[@MrJbee1982]

He's really found his niche. He was in a sump for a while but he's back.

[@thegood9]

Love this guy. Cannot wait to see this movie on Thursday.

[@austriantruther4648]

Can't wait to see!!

[@hurricane_valence]

I'm. So excited. I'm just dying waiting to see this movie.

[@Truthisscarierthanfiction]

LMAO at the zoom in to the chin. Give the cameraman a raise!

[@diegoalves598]

"Wtf?" - Nicolas Cage's mother.

[@gabrielsirkis704]

Nic Cage was made a meme for a long time but the way he played Longlegs is some of the best acting I ever saw. True horror

[@Dracula77110]

He’s so cool

[@craigwilliams6734]

I am so stoked to see the film on the Big screen !!!!

[@MRKinoYoutube]

You had me at good critics reviews and Nicolas Cage.

[@jemandjemand2362]

he is iconic already.

[@mandy2500]

So glad that he has bounced back !

[@SpencerLuxBurton]

Man this movie was fricken crazy. He did an amazing job.

[@eusaboston]

I couldn’t recognize him and I had to google while watching the movie wondering “who is this amazing actor “

[@TrevyTrev-andTheFunkyPets]

He is soo likeable. Can’t wait to see this.

[@willevalle9371]

Cage is one of the best. He has done so many movies

[@kingofthenorthcarolina7107]

One of the best to ever do it

[@willvrtist]

I legit asked at the end of this movie to my brothers, like "where tf was Nicolas Cage in that movie".. I literally couldn't even tell that, THAT was him. Such a creepy character and as much as I didn't really "enjoy" that movie, the performance, plot and horror element to it was certainly fantastic

[@ShiniestMew]

Cage never loses baby

[@jwhittle91]

Longlegs just might be my favorite performance from him. Nic Cage looks very easily approachable and kind. He has a nice voice that’s probably easy to talk to but he got lost in the role of Longlegs. His performance made me so uncomfortable and he was really unsettling. Amazing performance.

[@sounakchatterjee3701]

Such a legend, so versatile, still going stronger than ever, a superstar over generations. Longlegs is brilliant, Cage is absolutely unnerving and terrifying ❤

[@claynog101]

One of the best actors in the 21st century.

[@EasyDeezy865]

Zooming on the wattle is wild

[@sergioquero7555]

Movie is must see, most scared I have been watching a movie since hereditary

[@KrisWard-xs2pr]

Nick cage occasionally makes a great film ita rare but when he does its awesome.

[@theholymackerel072]

This man has perfected neoshamanism.

[@hamsterrwrld6767]

This man is a living, breathing legend. Like the comment below me said, he can make a 90 minute commercial about toothpaste, and I'd 100% be locked tf in lol.

[@Davechappelle445]

Man I hope this movie lives up to the hype

[@mastakaos89]

Nice, I'm looking forward to seeing Longlegs tomorrow.

[@DanielGagne]

Man, imagine having a night alone to chat over a drink with this guy about life stories.

[@kingston4313]

Imagine nick cage as joker but with longlegs energy, even batman would piss himself

[@martinhanssson2397]

This guy never age

[@ChibiChubbyRobo]

Random Fellini reference, what a cool dude 😎

[@truthtyperii7727]

He scare me so damn much lol. If anyone hasn’t seen Nic in Mandy you must! Whatta legend!