Nicolas Cage was born as Nicolas Kim Coppola in Long Beach, California. He is part of the prominent Coppola family, with his uncle being the acclaimed director Francis Ford Coppola and his cousin being director Sofia Coppola.

Cage made his feature film acting debut with a minor role in 'Fast Times at Ridgemont High,' still using his birth name Nicolas Coppola. This marked the beginning of his career in the film industry.

Cage starred in several films, including 'Valley Girl,' 'Rumble Fish,' 'The Cotton Club,' and 'Peggy Sue Got Married,' many of which were directed by or involved his uncle Francis Ford Coppola. This period helped establish him in the industry and showcased his early talent.

Cage gained significant recognition with his roles in the Coen Brothers' 'Raising Arizona' and the romantic comedy 'Moonstruck.' These films highlighted his versatility and comedic timing, setting the stage for his future success.

Cage received critical acclaim and won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of a suicidal alcoholic in 'Leaving Las Vegas.' This performance is often cited as one of his best and marked a significant milestone in his career.

Cage transitioned into mainstream action films with roles in 'The Rock,' 'Con Air,' and 'Face/Off.' These films, particularly 'Face/Off' alongside John Travolta, showcased his ability to perform in high-action genres and cemented his status as an action star.

Cage made his directorial debut with the film 'Sonny' and received his second Academy Award nomination for his role as Charlie Kaufman in 'Adaptation.' This period demonstrated his multifaceted talents in both acting and directing.

Cage continued to star in a variety of films, including the 'National Treasure' series, the 'Ghost Rider' series, and 'Kick-Ass.' These roles further solidified his position as a versatile actor capable of handling diverse genres.

Cage experienced a resurgence in critical acclaim with roles in 'Mandy,' 'Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,' 'Pig,' and 'The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent.' These performances have been praised for their intensity and depth, reaffirming his status as a compelling actor.

Nicolas Cage continues to be active in the film industry, taking on a wide range of roles. His personal life, including his multiple marriages and unique interests, such as purchasing and returning a dinosaur skull, remains a subject of public interest.