Nicolas Cage stunned audiences at the Cannes Film Festival with his performance in 'The Surfer,' directed by Lorcan Finnegan.

The film explores the character's desire to surf with his son on a beach near his childhood home in Australia, using surfing as a metaphor for life and the struggle to move forward despite pain.

Cage's portrayal seamlessly transitions between normalcy and insanity, adding depth to themes of masculinity, father figures, and self-discovery.

The movie subverts traditional revenge plotlines, focusing on internal struggles and past reflections.

Despite its misleading title, 'The Surfer' captivates with its blend of comedy, surrealism, and allegory, leaving the audience with a sense of ambiguity and upliftment.

Cage's memorable catchphrase 'Eat the rat' and his interaction with the audience in French added to the film's standout status at the festival.

Director Lorcan Finnegan aims for 'The Surfer' to linger in the subconscious after the credits roll.

Cage received a standing ovation and has a busy upcoming schedule, including a horror film, a Western, and a return to his role as Spider-Man Noir in a live-action series, despite his plans to retire from film.