A science fiction action thriller about a man who can see into the future, Next - adapted from a Philip K. Dick short story - is the kind of movie you would ignore if not for the presence of Nicholas Cage. Cage fans have had a hard time over the past few years, as one of America's best actors has wasted his talents on one mediocre movie after another. Still, even in a movie as lousy as Next there are a few moments when the star manages to add depth his one-dimensional character as well as liven up his wooden lines. Cage plays Cris, a psychic who makes a living as a magician in a Las Vegas hotel. Able to foresee what is going to happen in the next two minutes, he spends his time waiting in a restaurant for a girl (Jessica Biel) he has seen in his dreams to appear. He leads an isolated and lonely life until one day two FBI agents, one played by a grim-looking Julianne Moore, approach him for help. A Russian nuclear device has been smuggled into America by terrorists. The bomb is set to explode at any moment and Cris must use his psychic powers to help the FBI locate the device. In short, he must sacrifice his freedom and suspend his love life to protect the lives of eight million people. But Cris refuses to comply. It is then we realise that, rather than glorifying superpowers, the movie - despite all the loopholes in plot - is a serious attempt to explore the plight of those who struggle to fit in, for whatever reason. Cage has the knack of playing characters living on the edge, and the role of an alienated psychic is perfect for him. Unfortunately, just as Cage is about to do some serious acting, the action kicks in prematurely. Suddenly the movie - directed by Die Another Day director Lee Tamahori - turns into a hybrid of The Matrix and Miami Vice, leaving little room for imagination or inspiration. The ending of Next is left open. Not only will viewers be left wondering what happens next, but fans will ponder what's next for Cage, and if he can redeem himself in his next outing. VERDICT: WAIT FOR DVD
