He plays a
US congressman whose career is in jeopardy following a political
scandal, and the man charged with bringing him to life was in character
on Tuesday as filming continued in New Orleans.
Idling
between takes, Nicolas Cage was poised for another scene – and judging
by his fuller face and paunchy frame he appeared to have adopted a
method approach to his latest role.
The
50-year-old actor was certainly a few pounds heavier than usual during
principal photography for political drama The Runner.
Passing the time: Nicolas Cage idles between takes on the set if his new movie, The Runner
Sporting
a casual blue shirt and jeans, Cage stood with his hands on his hips
during a short break on the Louisiana set – but his relaxed ensemble was
soon traded for a smart shirt and tie.
The
celebrated actor was unveiled as leading man in the forthcoming film in
May, with Austin Stark making his screenwriting and directorial debut
with the feature.
Set
in the wake of the 2010 BP oil spill, The Runner sees cage playing
fictional New Orleans congressman Colin Price – an ‘idealist’ whose
professional life is derailed following a sex scandal.
Quiet on set: Nicolas Cage displays a fuller figure as he gets into character as US congressman Colin Price
Changing faces: Nicolas Cage gained a little
weight for his new role as a disgraced politician in The Runner. (L)
posing for photos at a London event and (R) on set this week
Getting into character: Cage prepares for another scene on the Louisiana set on Tuesday
The
film also stars Hollywood veteran Peter Fonda as Price’s father and
Danish star Connie Nielsen – best known for her role as Lucilla in
Gladiator – as his wife.
Wendell
Pierce – whose role as Detective Bunk Moreland in The Wire won him wide
acclaim – will also feature as Price’s chief of staff.
Referring
to the casting of Cage, director Stark told The Hollywood Reporter:
‘For my first film as a director, I’m honored to be working alongside
one of the finest living actors, Nicolas Cage.
‘The
Runner, a contemporary political drama, is new and exciting territory
for Mr. Cage. I have no doubt he’s going to deliver a powerful and
poignant performance, as relevant as the film itself.’
The Runner is scheduled for release in 2015.
Plenty to talk about: The celebrated actor chats on hos mobile between takes
