Nicolas Cage to star as John Madden in David O. Russell biopic

Amazon MGM Studios released the first trailer for the biographical drama 'Madden' on Wednesday. Nicolas Cage plays the late football coach and broadcaster in the film, which is directed by Oscar nominee David O. Russell. The movie is scheduled to open in theaters on November 11 and will stream globally on Prime Video on November 18.

The narrative follows Madden’s career trajectory from leading the Oakland Raiders to a Super Bowl victory in the 1970s to becoming a television analyst. The story also covers his role in creating Electronic Arts' video game franchise. Russell wrote the script with Cambron Clark. The plot centers on Madden’s departure from coaching due to health problems and his working relationship with Raiders owner Al Davis, a role played by Christian Bale.

Cage discussed the character in a video feature posted to social media. He described Madden as a larger-than-life legend who changed the game. Cage stated, "His football brilliance was unmatched. As a coach, John was a savant, seeing the field in ways no one else could. As a broadcaster, his brilliance evolved." The actor noted that accepting the role was a highlight for him.

The cast includes Kathryn Hahn as Madden’s wife, Virginia, and Sienna Miller as Carol Davis. John Mulaney portrays Trip Hawkins, the founder of Electronic Arts, while Shane Gillis appears in a supporting capacity. Todd Black, Jason Blumenthal, and Steve Tisch produced the project for Escape Artists. They joined Russell, Jonathan Shukat, and Matthew Budman as producers.

The theatrical engagement is limited to one week before the streaming release. The November 18 date falls during the NFL regular season. The film is a feature-length drama that spans several decades of Madden’s public life.