Novocaine No Pain

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 1/2 (out of 5 stars)

There are moments in cinematic history when filmmakers make someone who has a physical condition or medical challenge into a superpower. By taking something that most of society sees as a weakness or a means of limiting their abilities, these films turn this difficulty into a positive. Novocaine No Pain takes this slant on reality to a new level and doesn’t hold back on its subtlety to deliver a new unassuming hero.

Nathan Caine (Jack Quaid) lives a reclusive life as he harbours the condition called congenital insensitivity to pain with anhidrosis (CIPA) where he feels no pain. While this might be a benefit in certain situations, it can be life-threatening as he can potentially hurt himself without knowing it. With a life expectancy of 25 years, the credit union assistant manager has managed to defy the odds and live a prosperous life despite certain limitations. Nathan has little direct contact with others outside of work until his co-worker Sherry Margrave (Amber Midthunder) notices him and invites him out for drinks, which leads to even more. Yet, this is all threatened when Sherry is kidnapped when the credit union is robbed, and Nathan decides to take it upon himself to rescue her. An adventure that will test his ability to stay alive as he overcomes his imperviousness to pain while chasing his friend’s captors.

Trailer contain mature content

As a concept, Nathan Caine adventure rides the line between brilliance and ridiculousness, taking the extremities of the violence to a comedic level that will appeal to those with strong constitutions. There are nods to John Wick, The Accountant, Nobody and even Deadpool that make this farcical storyline work for all willing to suspend reality. As the laughs ensue, many may have to look away as this young man endures the most extreme of injuries to save the one he believes he loves.

The whole thing works because of Jack Quaid's performance. He embodies the fear, naivety and courage of a man forced into a situation that takes him out of his comfort zone. Even the unlikely love story becomes even more believable as Quaid maintains his innocence amongst his heroism. As the twists unfold and the characters are developed, for those who enjoy heightened levels of violence and gore being added to their comedic tastes, Novocaine No Pain is for you.

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Reel Dialogue: The question of pain

Did you know that the word “pain” or some form appears over 70 times in the Bible? Nathan Caine doesn't feel physical pain, but his life is impacted by the pain of this world. Also, his experience is not a reality that most of us have since we all must address the problem of pain in this life. Pain is a certainty in our lives that manifests physically, mentally, and spiritually. Pain allows those who follow God to experience God's grace. He will give His children the grace to bear the pain.

If you take time to read the Bible, it shares the belief in Jesus Christ that God gives the believer eternal life, and with that gift, some benefits address the issue of pain. One is “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away” (Revelation 21:4).

But what about the pain you are experiencing now? Take some time to realise how Jesus endured excruciating emotional and physical pain on our behalf. No pain could approach what Jesus went through during His crucifixion, and He suffered that pain willingly to redeem those who follow Him.

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