Michael Sarnoski has previously written and directed for TV and short film. His first feature project is a testament to the strength of the Indie film industry in America.
Pig tells the ostensibly simple tale of an eccentric hermit truffle-hunter, Robin, whose prize truffle pig is stolen one night. With the help of his young ambitious truffle merchant Amir, he travels to Portland in order to find her. But where he is really travelling to is his complex past.
Sarnoski and co-writer Vanessa Block have put together a script at once complex, beautiful, and intelligent. There are some arcs that needed better resolution, but these quibbles don’t detract from the overall satisfaction of this quirky and moving narrative.
As Robin, Nicolas Cage shows a subtlety and depth his bigger roles don’t really allow him. This is a role that could easily turn into caricature, but Cage keeps it perfectly held. Surely a Golden Globe contender for him. Alex Wolff is fine as Amir, although the role is a tad under-written. Adam Arkin gives us a complex nemesis for Robin in the character of Darius. Their final showdown is the emotional highlight of the movie.
Cinematographer Patrick Scola has made the most of both the breath-taking Oregon wilderness, and the urban funkiness of Portland, whilst also allowing his camera to capture moments of emotional intensity and intimacy. This, combined with Brett W. Bachman’s deft editing results in a film that keeps the tension high, but within a framework of an exquisite slow-burn. There is also lots in here to please the foodie, much of the action taking place within the competitive high-end restaurant industry. Above all, this is a beautiful, beautiful film.
Pig is unusual, to say the least. Yet when it works, it works astonishingly well. Its small faults in no way detract from the subtle genius of writers, director, crew, and Cage himself. And it is impossible to come away from this film without falling in love with the eponymous pig: she is an absolute darling!
Sarnoski has earnt his badge as the new “director to watch”. Let’s hope Cage does more work like this in the future.
An astonishing and unique piece of film-making 4.5 stars
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