Sneak Peek of Nicolas Cage in 'Ghost Rider'
May 23, 2006
Appearing in a number of award-winning yet off-beat, quirky roles, NICOLAS CAGE has redefined himself as a full-throttle action hero in films such as 'The Rock,' 'Face/Off' and 'National Treasure' -- now the star is primed to make a dramatic return to the big screen action genre with 'Ghost Rider.'
On tonight's ET we have an exclusive first look at the film, which opens early next year.
The film is based on the Marvel comic book in which a stunt motorcyclist gives up his soul to become a hell-blazing vigilante. With the success of the 'X-men' and 'Spider-Man' movie franchises, Marvel seeks to draw a similar audience with the dark, supernatural-themed 'Ghost Rider.'
The studio turned to 'Daredevil' writer and director MARK STEVEN JOHNSON to helm the picture, which also stars WES BENTLEY ('The Four Feathers'), EVA MENDES ('Hitch'), MATT LONG ("Jack & Bobby"), SAM ELLIOTT ('Thank You for Smoking') and the almighty PETER FONDA, who takes a twisted turn as Mephisto -- a demon or "fallen angel" in Christian mythology, often called Satan or the Devil.
The story follows Cage, as Johnny Blaze, who makes a deal with Mephisto and agrees to become the host of a "spirit of vengeance" in order to save his dying father -- but the price he pays is to be cursed with the avenging spirit that takes its form at night as a demon with a flaming skull on a motorcycle of hellfire.
Unlike recent comic books that have been turned into major motion pictures, 'Ghost Rider' is a deeply supernatural thriller that pits humanity against the darkest demons of hell. Eerie, gritty and wrapped in elements of mythology, this isn't the typical "superhero" popcorn fare.
Don't miss our exclusive first look at this edgy new film on tonight's ET!