As a streaming writer, it’s my job to keep up with what streaming services are adding to their lineups each month. In this case, I noticed that Prime Video recently got the action-comedy “Novocaine," a movie that had me laughing and cringing when I saw it in theaters back in March.
Much like “Black Bag” (which was also just added to Prime Video), this movie hasn’t received much attention since its theatrical release. In fact, it only managed $34 million worldwide at the box office, and after landing on its streaming home on Paramount Plus, it’s mostly been forgotten. That’s why I feel the need to shine a light on another overlooked movie of 2025.
“Novocaine” follows Nathan Caine (Jack Quaid), an assistant bank manager in San Diego who has a rare condition that makes him unable to feel physical pain. When his co-worker and love interest, Sherry Margrave (Amber Midthunder), is taken hostage during a Christmas Eve bank robbery, Nathan impulsively steals a police car to pursue the criminals.
As you can tell from the premise, this movie is a hilariously overblown action-comedy that thrives on sheer nonsense, but that’s only part of its charm. I’m hoping its arrival on Prime Video U.S. will give it a chance to shoot into the top 10 list and earn more recognition.
So, if you’re looking for an entertaining watch this week, here’s why “Novocaine” should be your next adrenaline fix.
‘Novocaine’ is a devilishly fun adrenaline blast
The best way I can describe “Novocaine” is that it’s a whole lot of fun. It lets you shut your brain off and enjoy the chaos unfolding on screen, no matter how much you have to suspend your disbelief. Everything about it practically screams popcorn entertainment.
Bursting with dark humor and dramatic action, “Novocaine” is a wild ride centered on a man whose life takes a chaotic turn while following his heart. One morning, during a staff meeting, Nate notices a new teller, Sherry, arriving late. She apologizes and invites him to lunch, and he hesitantly agrees, though he only orders a milkshake. When she offers a bite of her pie, Nate declines, revealing a rare condition that leaves him unable to feel physical pain. He can’t safely eat solid food, as even a small bite could be fatal ....
This could’ve easily been a romantic action flick, but it’s the unusual twist of him being unable to feel pain that gives the story its true spark.
Unsurprisingly, this premise sets up a series of outrageous (and often cringe-inducing) moments as Nathan endures every imaginable injury without batting an eye. He gets punched, plunges his hand into boiling oil to snatch a gun, dangles upside down with an arrow lodged in his leg, and even carries a live mine on his back. It’s absolutely bonkers, yet somehow the chaos plays perfectly.
The action sequences are a wild ride, and I even found myself wincing when Nathan smashes his fists through glass just to take someone down in pure Wolverine mode. So, fair warning: this isn’t a movie for anyone queasy about violence.
But it’s not just the action that makes it entertaining, as the movie thrives on pure, unrestrained fun. Sure, it leans on familiar genre tropes like a quiet guy rescuing the girl, a snarky villain, and a predictable ending, but the movie embraces them with such energy that it never feels stale.
Quaid is obviously the standout in this movie, taking his signature charm and layering it with a surprising dose of self-assured toughness that we haven’t fully seen in his more well-known role in “The Boys.” His enthusiasm and lovingness keep you engaged throughout the chaos, making it easy to root for him even as the story spirals wildly out of control.
Even though “Novocaine” is pure fun, the premise starts to wear thin in the final act, as Nate has endured so much brutal punishment that the “can’t feel pain” angle loses some of its juice. Add in side characters who feel largely undeveloped, and the movie loses a few points. Still, it’s a thrilling ride nonetheless, and one you’ll want to see through until the end.
You need to stream ‘Novocaine’ on Prime Video now
If you’re looking for a movie that delivers unfiltered entertainment, “Novocaine” is exactly the kind of chaotic thrill ride you want on your screen. From absurd physical feats to unexpected comic beats, the movie doesn’t hold back, making every scene unpredictable and exhilarating. Its unique premise opens the door for situations that are simultaneously outrageous and inventive.
“Novocaine” was also well-received upon release, with critics rating it 80% and audiences 84% on Rotten Tomatoes. The site’s critics consensus reads: “Getting an adrenaline shot from Jack Quaid and Amber Midthunder's considerable charm while finding increasingly demented ways to utilize its concept, Novocaine is the opposite of a pain to watch.”
Stream “Novocaine” on Prime Video now.
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