Novocaine has a high concept and establishes vulnerable character backstories. This sets up sincere romance as well as potential for satisfying arcs (with themes of intimacy). However, that drama is sidelined by the formulaic plot. Its action-comedy antics directly desensitize emotions. Some might say the protagonist arcs because he becomes more assertive, but he never confronts an internal struggle. There are contrivances, inconsistent jokes, repetitive plot points, clunky dialogue, generic villains, a pointless twist, tropes, and sanitized resolution. The acting provides personality plus chemistry yet begins to feel farcical. Essentially, Novocaine loses sight of its heart.
Technically, Novocaine is competent but struggles to unify its tones or solidify a style. Despite some capable touches, the cinematography leans towards looking drab. Although its first act is well-paced within a concise runtime, its editing exhausts momentum because of relatively monotonous action. The sound sells the violence while adding subjective distortions. Its music is generally unimpactful and the production design is oddly bland (especially with its settings). Aside from Quaid's fit and rising fame, its cast seems rather replaceable. The effects deliver decent stunts as well as prosthetics. Though perhaps passable, unfortunately, Novocaine is often forgettable.
Writing: 5/10
Direction: 5/10
Cinematography: 6/10
Acting: 6/10
Editing: 5/10
Sound: 7/10
Score/Soundtrack: 4/10
Production Design: 4/10
Casting: 6/10
Effects: 7/10
Overall Score: 5.5/10
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