Nicolas Cage’s attempt to master surfing for his role in The Surfer almost turned fatal. The actor recounted a harrowing experience where he was caught in a rip tide off Sunset Beach in an EW interview.
"I was climbing up the leash as I’m somersaulting, and I could’ve died," Cage admitted. "They saw my board, they call it 'tombstone,' like that triangle top," indicating the board's tip was sticking straight up out of the water.
Despite the dangers, Cage persisted in his surfing lessons, aiming to capture an iconic scene reminiscent of Big Wednesday. However, his efforts were hindered by challenging weather conditions and shark warnings.
"We had things like weather conditions and believe it or not, shark reports and things, all that s---," he noted.
Reflecting on his past experiences, Cage shared that every time he attempted surfing, he ended up "pounded to smithereens." However, with the arrival of his young child, he’s developed a sense of caution, admitting he’s unsure if he wants to continue. Despite this, he still dreams of a peaceful retirement spent surfing, enjoying red wine, and indulging in spaghetti.
The Surfer premiered at the 77th Cannes Film Festival and was released in theaters on May 2, 2025. The film delves into themes of identity and belonging, with Cage portraying a businessman confronting his past in an Australian coastal town.
