Jack Quaid brings his likable charm to the action comedy, Novocaine, a film that definitely leans into the pain can be funny and gross school of cinema.

Born with a rare disease, Nate Caine, can’t feel pain. Consequently, he’s lived his life in a safely controlled way, exuding caution every step of the way. Until he finally connects with his crush, Sherry (Amber Midthunder), a fellow employee at the bank.

After an amazing night together, Nate feels he may be able to take some chances. And that could end up being a good thing, when they’re bank is targeted, robbed, and the crooks take Sherry as a hostage.

Determined to get his possible dream girl back, Nate sets off on a one man hunt to track down the baddies and rescue the girl.

Sure, he doesn’t feel pain, but man the physical abuse is layered on, and by the end of the film, if he makes it that far, he may be more than a little broken.

Quaid brings Nate to life with an easy charm, he’s likable, goofy, and has an everyman quality that allows for viewers to relate. And the pain, the pain will have you laughing, gasping, and cringing in empathy, as Nate puts himself through it, and doles it out.

He’s reminded a couple of times that he is not a superhero, he can die, he just may not feel it. Consequently this leads to painful car accidents, shootings, hot kitchen implements, so much broken glass, and even more blood.

Along the way, Nate pairs up with his one friend, an online pal, Roscoe (Jacob Batalon) who comes through for him in real life. But has no idea what he is getting into when Nate calls him.

Wonderfully violent, incredibly bloody, and deliciously funny, this one works. It entertains, it engages, and honestly, I love seeing Jack Quaid succeeding. He’s just so fun to watch.

There’s a couple of twists and turns, nothing that comes a especially surprising, but the action sequences just shine, whether it’s in an active kitchen, or in a home alone booby-trapped house. Watching Nate get hurt and just going on with his day, no matter what happens, is really funny. He’s single-minded in his purpose, and is absolutely determined to get Sherry back.

Nae is determined to make it through the day, but with criminals and cops, there’s no small amount of violence coming his way, and it’s probably a good thing he can’ feel anything.

I had a lot of fun with this one.