Jack Quaid, the star ofThe Boysand films likeScreamandCompanion, says he would love to return as 2025’s most unexpected action hero. Quaid is going through his most prolific year so far, having already had notable releases likeCompanionandNeighborhood Watchand now wrapping up on the fifth and final season ofThe Boys.However, it’s the character of Nate Caine inNovocainethat sticks with him the most. So it’s time to start manifesting.
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The action comedy released in the first half of this year was not only one of Quaid’s standout performances, but also one of the best action movies of recent years. The 33-year-old actor sat down to chat with The Hollywood Reporter about the release of his latest movie, the action vehicleHeads of State,co-starring John Cena and Idris Elba. When asked if he would like to reprise the role of Nate Caine, the bank executivewithout the capacity to feel any pain, in a possibleNovocainesequel, Quaid is more than open to it, saying, “I’d love to do anotherNovocaine.”
“Oh, thank you for trying to speak that into existence. I’d love to do another Novocaine. I have also loved the amount of people that have checked out that movie since it’s come on streaming.
It’s unbelievable, and thank you to anyone who’s checked it out. That character has such a special place in my heart. He’s such a sweetheart, and he goes through so much, but he does it for love. I have ideas [for a sequel]. We all have ideas. So knock on wood and pray to the movie Gods that it happens. I would absolutely love that.”
“I Didn’t Expect ‘Novocaine’ to Stick With Me This Much”
Neither did we, Jack, neither did we. The beloved action comedy remains a solid original film amid the sea of franchise and IP-based films that have been released in 2025. With a great balance between violence and humor, and a truly compelling lead,Novocainestands among the best action filmsin recent years. With a few kick-ass roles in the genre, Quaid has proven he’s got what it takes to establish himself as an action star:
“Dude, I am still stuck in Nate Caine mode. I am doing fight scenes for The Boys now in Toronto, and I have to be reminded that I can feel pain. I didn’t expect [Novocaine] to stick with me this much, and sometimes, I go over the top with it. They’re like, ‘Okay, now you’re selling pain too much. Just sell a normal amount of pain.’ So I’ve been overcompensating.
“But pain is a factor, and it really does help you sell hits. That’s what I’ve learned doing action, and I love doing action sequences. It’s a part of acting that I never thought I would be in love with to this degree, but every time I get to do one, I jump at the chance. I truly love it.”
Novocainewas modestly successful during its theater run, grossing more than $34 million from an $18 million production budget. However, after premiering on digital services and streaming, the film foundunexpected and long-lasting success. Today, it’s Certified Fresh and sits at 81% on Rotten Tomatoes, with an audience rating of 84%.
Source:The Hollywood Reporter
