Novocaine is a wild, gory action comedy that embraces its over-the-top premise with full force. Jack Quaid shines as Nathan, a bank worker who can't feel pain, throwing himself into chaotic, Looney Tunes-style violence in a desperate bid to save the woman he loves. The film balances absurd action with sharp humour and surprising emotional depth, making it more than just a series of brutal slapstick set pieces. Amber Midthunder and Quaid have great chemistry, and the film's inventive fight sequences keep things fresh and engaging throughout.
While the film is a blast, its near-relentless pace makes it feel slightly too long at an hour and 45 minutes. A tighter 90-minute cut might have helped keep the momentum from dragging in places. However, Novocaine never pretends to be anything other than a ridiculous, screwball action comedy, and it fully delivers on that promise. It's violent, funny, and completely self-aware, making for an entertaining ride from start to finish.
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