How Coppola Became Cage

Nicolas Coppola, known as Nicolas Cage, made his film debut in 1982 and changed his name to distance himself from his famous family. He began a career defined by unorthodox risks and left turns that put him at odds with the Brat Pack era. How Coppola Became Cage takes readers behind the scenes of the cult movies that transformed him into an eccentric and uncompromising screen icon. Author Zach Schonfeld traces Cage's rise through the world of independent cinema and chronicles the stories behind his career-making early performances, culminating with the astonishing pathos of Leaving Las Vegas.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 08 February 2024
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

In 1982, a young and lanky teenager named Nicolas Coppola made his film debut and decided to change his name to Nicolas Cage, aiming to distance himself from his famous family. However, his journey to stardom was anything but conventional. After his breakthrough role as the rebellious heartthrob in the 1983 film "Valley Girl," Cage embarked on a career characterized by audacious risks and unconventional choices that often put him at odds with the stars of the Brat Pack era.

"How Coppola Became Cage" delves deep into the life and career of this enigmatic actor. Author Zach Schonfeld takes readers behind the scenes of the beloved cult movies that transformed Cage from an unknown actor into an eccentric and uncompromising screen icon. The book chronicles his rise through the world of independent cinema, exploring the stories behind his career-making early performances, including "Birdy," "Moonstruck," and "Vampire's Kiss."

What sets "How Coppola Became Cage" apart is its comprehensive coverage of Cage's creative process. The author conducts over 100 new interviews with Cage's key collaborators, including directors such as David Lynch, Martha Coolidge, John Patrick Shanley, and Mike Figgis. These interviews provide a revealing portrait of Cage's intense devotion to his performances and his creative self-discovery. Cage drew on a wide range of influences, from silent cinema to German Expressionism, which played a significant role in shaping his unique acting style.

One of the most striking aspects of Cage's career is his willingness to push the boundaries of realism. He has portrayed a wide range of characters, from quirky oddballs to complex and nuanced individuals, often defying conventional expectations. His performances are characterized by a wild-eyed gift for portraying weirdos, outsiders, criminals, and even romantic leads capable of seducing Cher. Cage's onscreen eccentricities have become his signature, and he has become known for his ability to immerse himself fully in his roles, regardless of how controversial or unconventional they may be.

"How Coppola Became Cage" not only revels in but also demystifies Cage's onscreen eccentricities. The book offers a deeper understanding of the actor's creative process and the influences that have shaped his performances. It sheds light on the challenges he faced throughout his career, from dealing with fame and scrutiny to navigating the complexities of his personal life.

In conclusion, "How Coppola Became Cage" is a must-read for fans of Nicolas Cage and anyone interested in the world of cinema. It provides a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the actor's career, offering a deeper understanding of his creative process and the impact he has had on the film industry. Whether you are a seasoned Cage enthusiast or a newcomer to his work, this book is sure to captivate and inspire.

Weight: 714g
Dimension: 244 x 165 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197556375