The Whale is a stunning and thought-provoking movie that takes the audience on an emotional journey through the struggles of a man named Charlie, played by Brendan Fraser. It was released on December 9th, 2022  and the film is distributed by A24 and directed by Darren Aronofsky. It is based on the play by Samuel D. Hunter which tells the story of a 600-pound man who is confined to his apartment due to his weight and declining health. The film focuses on the human condition and manages to make you feel uncomfortable, sad, and hopeful all at the same time. At the Oscars, the movie won two out of the three categories they were nominated for, and it deserved it: this is a film that should be watched by all. 

The film opens with Charlie alone in his apartment, surrounded by empty food containers and struggling to breathe. His only interaction with the outside world is through his online college writing class. The only connection he has is with a woman named Liz, played by Hong Chau, who comes over to take care of him. As Charlie is getting closer to his inevitable death, there are two new people who come into his life: his daughter and a missionary.

Fraser’s portrayal of Charlie is both heartbreaking and inspiring. He fully embodies the physical and emotional struggles of a man who is trapped in his own body, conveying Charlie’s pain and isolation with amazing depth and sensitivity. Despite his physical limitations, Charlie still has the kindest interactions with his angry teen daughter, Ellie (played by Sadie Sink.)

The cinematography and production make you feel like you’re there, watching Charlie. You are basically trapped in the apartment with him for the whole movie and the camera movements are slow and eerie, and the audio will focus on the food he’s eating while he’s binging. I think it’s a great choice and it does a really good job of displaying the life Charlie is living.

The Whale is a powerful and moving film that tackles difficult themes with honesty. Aronofsky’s direction is subtle and restrained, allowing the actors to fully inhabit their roles and convey the film’s emotional core. Fraser’s performance is a standout and one that should not be missed. The film leaves a lasting impression and is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

With the Oscars taking place on March 12 Brendan Fraser’s performance was able to award him Best Actor. With Brendan Fraser’s sad history with Hollywood, and after 30 years of being in the business, the award being given to Brendan is satisfying to watch. The Whale also won Best Achievement in Makeup and Hairstyling, and Hong Chau was nominated for best performance by an actor in a supporting role