The hero is, undoubtedly, Brendan Fraser. It’s impossible not to notice the thematic similarities between his experiences in (and withdrawing from) Hollywood and the lead character, Charlie, separating himself from the world. His screen presence injects much-needed empathy into this movie, adding lightness and innocence to a character comprised of polar opposites — Charlie is both selfless and selfish; incredibly optimistic about his daughter Ellie’s (Sadie Sink) potential but hopeless about his own; able to see his flaws but not take accountability for them. As emotionally challenging as this may have been for Fraser, seeing him given space to take on such a complex role in such a thoughtful, humane way is The Whale’s true triumph.
Directed by Darren Aronofsky and starring Sadie Sink and Brendan Fraser
To see trailer please click here
Centre for the performing and visual arts in Anglesey, North Wales
