Lisa Johnson Mandell’s Novocaine review says that Jack Quaid plus a fun and interesting premise makes this thriller/comedy/romcom a solid hit.

At first, you might think Nate Caine’s medical condition, known as congenital analgesia, is a blessing. He is literally unable to feel any pain. No headaches, painful toe stubbing, no stomachaches, nada.

But then he explains he could easily bleed to death before he realizes he’s been injured, that he can’t eat solid food because he could accidentally bite a chunk off his tongue, and even though he leads a very sheltered life, he can’t keep the bullies from pulverizing him just to see how far they can go before hurting him. You start to realize the condition is more of a bane than a blessing.

The life of a humble, shy, withdrawn, nerdy, video-playing assistant bank manager has served him quite well, actually, until he falls in love for the first time, and the object of his affection gets kidnapped. Then he’s forced to step out of his comfy little cocoon and find and confront the bad guys who nabbed her, and the results are half disastrous, half hilarious—in a cringy sort of way.

Novocaine review — Jack Quaid is a kick

It’s doubtful that any actor could have pulled off the role of Nate so flawlessly, endearingly, smartly and dopily, all at the same time. The result of Dennis Quaid and Meg Ryan having a baby has come into his own. You’ve recently seen him starring in Amazon’s The Boys series, and you may recognize him from films like the recent Companion, Oppenheimer and Scream.

But you, as well as directors, producers and action comedy romcom lovers, will never forget him in Novocaine.

Of course it helps that he’s supported by game young actors including Amber Midthunder as his girlfriend, Jacob Batalon as his bestie, and Ray Nicholson (Jack’s son) as his nemesis.

Now I saw Novocaine in 4DX, which I thought added to the zaniness of it all, but my friend thought it was a distraction. I say whenever you have a chance to add a tactile element to your visual and audio experience, go for it.

Nococaine is simply a fun night out.

Rated R

1 Hour 50 Minutes

If this Novocaine review encourages you to rush out and see it, get times and tickets at Fandango.com.

Lisa Johnson Mandell’s Novocaine review says that Jack Quaid plus a fun and interesting premise makes this thriller/comedy/romcom a solid hit.