In the thrilling action-adventure film "Primal," audiences are introduced to Frank Walsh, portrayed by the ever-charismatic Nicolas Cage, a big-game hunter who specializes in capturing exotic animals for zoos. He embarks on a high-stakes journey aboard a Greek freighter, transporting a fresh haul of rare and dangerous wildlife from the depths of the Amazon rainforest. Among the extraordinary creatures is a striking white jaguar, a coveted trophy that promises to be a highlight of his collection. However, the voyage takes on a darker twist when it becomes clear that a political assassin, played by Famke Janssen as Dr. Ellen Taylor, is being secretly extradited to the United States along with them, setting the stage for a perilous situation aboard the ship.
Two days into the voyage, the tension escalates when this cunning assassin orchestrates a daring escape, unleashing chaos on the vessel as she releases the captured animals from their cages. As the ship fills with deadly beasts, the crew is thrown into panic, and chaos reigns supreme. Frank Walsh finds himself in an unexpected struggle for survival, not only facing the peril of the freed, rampaging animals, but also the imminent threat posed by the assassin who is determined to escape at any cost. The film cleverly juxtaposes the primordial instincts of both the animals and the characters, exploring themes of survival and the primal nature of man and beast alike.
"Primal" expertly melds heart-pounding action with a gripping narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. As Frank Walsh must quickly devise a plan to restore order amidst the turmoil, he forms an unlikely alliance with Dr. Ellen Taylor, demonstrating courage and resilience against overwhelming odds. The conflict leads to a thrilling climax where the hunter and prey roles blur, showcasing fearless performances from Cage and Janssen amid a backdrop of breathtaking underwater shots and visceral fight sequences. With its blend of adventure, suspense, and environmental commentary, "Primal" promises to be a memorable film that captivates audiences and highlights the fine line between civilization and the wild.
Main Cast of Primal
Nicolas Cage
Nicolas Cage delivers a characteristically intense performance as Frank Walsh in the action-thriller 'Primal'. As a seasoned big-game hunter, Cage's Walsh is a man of few words but of decisive action, embodying a rugged, weathered presence that suits the film's gritty tone. His portrayal strikes a balance between the hardened mercenary and a man with a moral compass, showcasing Cage's ability to imbue even the most archetypal roles with a unique blend of ferocity and vulnerability. His interactions with both man and beast underscore the film's themes of survival and primal instinct, as Walsh navigates the treacherous waters of a hijacked ship carrying a menagerie of dangerous animals, including a rare white jaguar. Cage's performance is a highlight of the film, providing a compelling focal point as the plot unfolds with a mix of suspense and adrenaline-fueled sequences.
Famke Janssen
In the action-thriller film "Primal" (2019), Famke Janssen delivers a compelling performance as Dr. Ellen Taylor, a renowned zoologist and big-game hunter. Janssen brings a multifaceted portrayal to the screen, seamlessly blending intelligence, tenacity, and a hint of vulnerability. As Dr. Taylor, she is both a formidable presence and a woman driven by her passion for wildlife conservation, which leads her into dangerous territory. Her character is central to the plot, which revolves around the hunt for a legendary and dangerous predator. Janssen's performance is a highlight of the film, as she holds her own alongside co-star Nicolas Cage, showcasing her ability to handle both the physical demands of the role and the emotional depth required for her character's complex arc. Her portrayal adds a layer of sophistication to the action-packed narrative, making Dr. Ellen Taylor a memorable and intriguing character in the realm of action cinema.
Kevin Durand
Kevin Durand delivered a chilling and intense performance as Richard Loffler in the 2019 action-thriller film 'Primal.' His portrayal of the ruthless assassin was both physically imposing and psychologically unsettling, as he brought to life a character whose cold, calculating demeanor masked a deeper, more volatile instability. Durand's Loffler was a formidable presence on screen, exuding an air of menace that was palpable in every scene. His ability to convey the character's unpredictability and penchant for violence with a mere glance or physical gesture added layers of tension to the narrative. Durand's performance was a highlight of the film, showcasing his range as an actor and his capacity to embody a complex, dangerous villain who stands as a significant obstacle to the film's protagonist, played by Nicolas Cage. His portrayal of Loffler was not just a study in antagonism but also a masterclass in creating a character that audiences love to hate, ensuring that his performance lingered in the minds of viewers long after the credits rolled.
Secondary Cast of Primal
Jeremy Jay Nazario
Isaac Santiago
Drake Shannon
Daniel Salinas González
Pablo Tufiño
Lunarena Del Fresno
Juan C. Defendini
Crew of Primal
Full backstage crew list →- Released on December 27, 2019