Novocaine (15) |Close-Up Film Review

Chaos, carnage, and comedy collide in Novocaine, the latest high-octane action spectacle from directors Dan Berk and Robert Olsen.

This pulse-pounding thrill ride throws logic out the window in favor of relentless, bone-crunching action and dark humor, making for a wildly entertaining experience.

Jack Quaid stars as Nathan Caine, an unassuming bank employee with an extraordinary medical condition—he can’t feel pain. What starts as an ordinary workday quickly turns into absolute bedlam when a gang of ruthless criminals storms the bank and takes hostages, including his sharp-witted co-worker, played by Amber Midthunder. But rather than cowering in fear, Nathan’s unique condition turns him into a one-man wrecking crew, mowing through waves of armed thugs in increasingly over-the-top and brutal ways.

From the moment the first punch is thrown, Novocaine is an unrelenting rollercoaster of mayhem. Nathan absorbs beatings that would leave an ordinary person in a coma, yet he keeps coming back for more, dishing out just as much damage as he receives. The action sequences are choreographed with a mix of visceral brutality and slapstick absurdity, making it impossible to look away. Whether he’s using office supplies as deadly weapons or getting thrown through glass without flinching, Nathan’s indestructibility makes for some of the most creative fight scenes in recent memory.

But Novocaine isn’t just about over-the-top violence; it’s also packed with razor-sharp humor. The film never takes itself too seriously, leaning into the ridiculousness of its premise with pitch-black comedy and a knowing wink to the audience. Nathan’s deadpan reactions to life-threatening injuries add to the film’s comedic edge, making his pain-free rampage as funny as it is brutal.

The supporting cast brings even more energy to the chaos. Ray Nicholson is gloriously unhinged as the gang’s psychotic leader, exuding menace and dark charisma. Jacob Batalon provides some much-needed comic relief as an unlucky bystander caught in the crossfire, delivering hilarious one-liners amid the destruction. Amber Midthunder, meanwhile, proves she’s far from a helpless damsel—she fights back with just as much grit and determination as Nathan, making for a duo that’s easy to root for.

Visually, the film is a feast for action lovers. The fight choreography is dynamic, with the camera capturing every bone-crunching hit in exhilarating detail. The film doesn’t skimp on practical effects, making each impact feel raw and visceral. And while the action is often exaggerated for comedic effect, there’s no shortage of wince-inducing moments that will leave audiences cringing in sympathy.

Despite its strengths, Novocaine won’t be for everyone. The film operates at full throttle from start to finish, with barely a moment to breathe. For some, the relentless pace and sheer level of chaos may feel overwhelming. But for action junkies who thrive on high-energy, over-the-top spectacle, this film is an absolute gift.

In the end, it is pure, unfiltered adrenaline—loud, ludicrous, and completely self-aware. It delivers a perfect mix of brutal action and dark comedy, ensuring audiences are either laughing, gasping, or both at any given moment. If you’re looking for a film that doesn’t hold back, this one’s a must-watch. Just be prepared for a wild, bone-crunching ride.