In the darkly comedic film 'Novocaine', we follow the story of Frank Sangster, a seemingly ordinary dentist portrayed by the talented Steve Martin. Frank’s life takes a twisted turn when he meets Susan, played by Helena Bonham Carter, a seductive and enigmatic patient who walks into his dental practice. With her striking allure and magnetic personality, Susan not only captivates Frank but also leads him into a whirlwind of chaos that he never anticipated. This intriguing setup lays the foundation for a narrative filled with unexpected twists and turns, as Frank's mundane existence is upended by his encounter with this extraordinary woman.
As the plot unfolds, we witness Frank becoming entangled in a web of deception and moral dilemmas. After being seduced by Susan, he finds himself in a precarious situation when she manipulates him into prescribing her large quantities of drugs. This reckless behavior spirals out of control, resulting in Frank being implicated in a murder investigation that threatens to ruin both his career and reputation. The humor in 'Novocaine' is tinged with irony as Frank grapples with his growing obsession and guilt, leading to a series of misfortunes that further complicate his life.
Throughout the film, the chemistry between Frank and Susan becomes increasingly complicated as they navigate their dark desires and dire consequences. With Steve Martin bringing his signature comedic charm to the role of the beleaguered dentist, and Helena Bonham Carter infusing Susan with a blend of allure and danger, the film provides a captivating blend of humor, suspense, and moral ambiguity. As the situation escalates, viewers are left questioning how far one man will go to reclaim his life and whether he can escape the seductive clutches of his patient before it's too late.
Full Cast of Novocaine
Steve Martin
Frank Sangster
Steve Martin delivers a nuanced performance as Frank Sangster in the darkly comedic film "Novocaine," skillfully embodying the character's transformation from a strait-laced, small-town dentist to a man entangled in a web of deceit, passion, and crime. Martin adeptly captures Frank's initial mundane existence, characterized by a sterile, orderly life and a strained relationship with his hygienist sister, played by Laura Dern. However, the arrival of a seductive patient, portrayed by Helena Bonham Carter, acts as a catalyst that propels Frank into a downward spiral of poor decisions and moral reckonings. Martin's portrayal is both humorous and poignant, as he navigates the complexities of his character's descent into chaos, showcasing his range as an actor beyond his typical comedic roles. His performance is a testament to his ability to balance the absurdity of the situation with the genuine emotional turmoil of a man grappling with the consequences of his actions, making "Novocaine" a memorable and offbeat addition to his repertoire.
Helena Bonham Carter
Susan
Helena Bonham Carter delivered a captivating performance as Susan, the enigmatic figure at the heart of the darkly comedic thriller "Novocaine." Her portrayal of a mysterious woman who enters the life of a strait-laced dentist, played by Steve Martin, is a study in duality; she exudes a seductive charm while masking a hidden agenda. Carter's ability to convey complexity with subtle nuances allows Susan to oscillate between innocence and guile, drawing the audience into her web of intrigue. Her performance is marked by an undercurrent of unpredictability, keeping viewers on edge as they attempt to decipher her true intentions. Carter's chemistry with Martin is palpable, and her portrayal adds a layer of noir-ish suspense to the film, making her rendition of Susan a memorable and integral part of "Novocaine's" twisted narrative.
Laura Dern delivered a captivating performance as Jean Noble in the dark comedy film "Novocaine," directed by David Atkins. As the mysterious and sultry Jean, Dern exudes a potent mix of allure and danger, skillfully navigating the complex layers of her character's enigmatic persona. Jean's entrance into the life of the mild-mannered dentist Frank Sangster, played by Steve Martin, acts as the catalyst for a downward spiral of chaos and crime. Dern's portrayal brims with an intoxicating blend of charm and duplicity, making Jean a simultaneously irresistible and suspicious figure. Her ability to convey subtle shifts in emotion and intent keeps the audience guessing about her true motivations until the very end. Dern's performance is a highlight of the film, showcasing her range as an actress and her capacity to bring depth and intrigue to a character that is both the siren and the schemer of the narrative.
Lynne Thigpen delivers a memorable performance as Pat, the no-nonsense assistant to dentist Frank Sangster in the darkly comedic film "Novocaine." Her portrayal is a blend of steadfast loyalty and sharp-eyed perception, providing a grounded counterbalance to the chaos that ensues. Thigpen's Pat is the epitome of professionalism, yet she brings a warmth and depth to the role that hints at a rich inner life and a knowing wisdom about the world around her. With her commanding presence and precise timing, she navigates the twists and turns of the film's plot with an understated grace, offering both levity and insight. Her performance is a testament to her talent for bringing complexity and authenticity to supporting roles, making Pat an indelible part of the film's narrative fabric.
Chelcie Ross delivered a noteworthy performance as Mike, the malevolent and manipulative figure lurking in the shadows of the dark comedy-drama "Novocaine." As the estranged brother of lead character Frank Sangster, portrayed by Steve Martin, Ross's Mike is a menacing presence, exuding an air of calculated malice that stands in stark contrast to Martin's more anxious and bewildered dentist. With his deep, raspy voice and an icy stare that seems to cut through the screen, Ross crafts a character that is both unsettling and compellingly watchable. His ability to convey Mike's simmering resentment and underlying threat with just a few lines and subtle facial expressions adds a layer of tension to every scene he inhabits. Chelcie Ross's portrayal of Mike is a masterclass in less-is-more acting, providing the film with a memorable antagonist whose actions propel the narrative towards its uneasy conclusion.
Elias Koteas
Harlan Sangster
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Keith David
Detective Lunt
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Christian Stolte
Court Guard
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Kevin Bacon
Actor Lance Phelps
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Eri Fukatsu delivers a compelling performance as the enigmatic patient, Jean Noble, in the dark comedy "Novocaine." Despite her limited screen time, Fukatsu manages to craft a character that is both alluring and mysterious, leaving a lasting impression on the audience. Her portrayal of Jean is nuanced; she brings a delicate balance of vulnerability and cunning to the role, which is essential for her character's pivotal impact on the film's protagonist, a straight-laced dentist played by Steve Martin. Fukatsu's ability to convey complex emotions with minimal dialogue speaks to her prowess as an actor. Her interactions with Martin are charged with a palpable tension, and her character's dark secrets and motivations are slowly unveiled with a subtlety that adds to the film's noir-ish atmosphere. Eri Fukatsu's performance is a testament to her range and depth as an actress, making her a standout element in the movie's twisted narrative.
JoBe Cerny
Pharmacist Wayne Ponze
Teri Cotruzzola
Attractive Complaining Patient
Lucina Paquet
Mrs. Langston
Quincy Wong
Chinese Husband
George Lugg
Liquor Store Owner
Eddie Bo Smith Jr.
Motel Security Guard
Roy Hytower
Skinny Sheriff
Len Bajenski
Trooper Jarvis
Christopher Glasgow
Young Lover Kissing
Crew of Novocaine
Full backstage crew list →