i really like Zooey Deschanel, but her new TV show sux, so maybe she just lost her ability to pick a decent vehicle?
anywho, i'm inclined to say that i've not seen a bad Nicholas Cage film (though i've not seen them all). the guy just knows how to pick his roles. same with Jon Cusack and Morgan Freeman. Johnny Depp is okay, but you really need to be in the mood for him.
Jim Carrey has an interesting idea of what is a good idea for a role, as evidenced by his last few choices (Horton Hears A Who, then a gay guy [complete with sex scene...MY EYES!], then a series of kids movies, such as Mr. Popper's Penguins). but many of his obscure ones would really surprise people (like the number 23, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, and especially High Strung, which he was uncredited for). he sure can pick 'em.