Nicolas Kim Coppola , known professionally as Nicolas Cage, is an American actor and producer. He has performed in leading roles in a variety of films, ranging from romantic comedies and dramas to science fiction and action films. In the early years of his career, Cage starred in films such as Valley Girl , Racing with the Moon , Birdy , Peggy Sue Got Married , Raising Arizona , Moonstruck , Vampire's Kiss , Wild at Heart , Honeymoon in Vegas , and Red Rock West .