Movie Review: Pig (2021)

Pig (2021) written and directed by Michael Sarnoski

Nicholas Cage plays Rob, a backwoods Oregon truffle hunter whose best foraging pig is kidnapped. His only contact with the outside world is a truffle-buyer named Amir (Alex Wolff). The two hunt after the pig, drawing Rob back to Portland where he left a lot behind. This is one of those movies where the less you know going in, the better off you will be.

The simple premise sounds like it could be a joke, but the film is a serious examination of isolation, being connected to others, and needing purpose in life. All of the characters have these issues and deal with them in different ways. The slow, meditative pace of the story gives the viewer plenty of time to think about the deeper problems these characters face. Cage gives a solid, understated performance that suits the character and the story well. There is one scene that seems out of place that almost dragged the film down for me. That's balanced against a lot of well done little moments throughout the film. This is not an exciting, action-packed entertainment. If you are in the right mood, this movie is quite satisfying.

Recommended for a more reflective night of entertainment.