The Whale Broke Me (Not In a Good Way) | Movie Review

[@cineflect]

Have you seen THE WHALE? Let me know what you thought of the film!

[@jimamster]

I loved the film. To me, it wasn’t about Charlie’s weight but rather about the devastating impact of homophobia. It was about how religion can destroy people’s lives. Charlie is a compassionate, intelligent and loving human being. His quote: “People can’t not care” sums it up. I couldn’t help but think how different his life would be if he had lived in New York City or Boston where his sexuality would be much more excepted.

[@jbgoldstein5105]

I really wanted to like it but watching the daughter berate her father over and over again was just exhausting and way overdone. BF did wonderfully but nothing else about it was up to the level of his performance.

[@lorenfranz3173]

I was so excited to see Brendan Fraser in a starring role once again. Maybe the hype was overblown, but I always felt he gave his all in every movie he's been in. His downfall wasn't necessarily his fault; his mother dying, a nasty divorce, bankruptcy and him being cast in box office bombs must've been hard on him.

[@MemeScreen]

I loved the movie. But I really don’t watch that many movies.

[@Kately-fg3so]

@@jbgoldstein5105 he left her when she was 8. And her character did more for her father’s character than I did for mine when he tried to get in touch as he was dying 🤷🏼‍♀️. Idk maybe you have to know why she was so mad to get it

[@LarryXLR]

I hate how people see the film as fat phobia. It's not about finding Charlie disgusting. It's about finding sympathy for what he has physically become and finding the drive to cheer for his last shot at redemption.

[@alpha_9997]

If anyone ever seriously tells me anything is fatphobic i laugh at them. I dont excuse people who are rude to overweight people but fatphobia dosent exist. Your an asshole if you do that but your not “fat phobic”

[@rob5541]

They missed the point. It is a common criticism too, and I think it's more about desire to shoehorn representation into every movie. Some friends of mine wondered if it wasn't fat positive, which it's not and shouldn't be. It's not about that.

[@SilentInsanity369]

fatphobia doesn't exist.

[@Weird782]

Alot of people don't like to have a mirror shoved in their face, as soon as something triggers anything that leads to selfreflection they'll point outwards instead of inwards. They probably see themselves, and they don't like it.

[@TheJarlath9]

@Michael Davison I think people hate it because it's to real they can't deny that it's a problem

[@jevinday]

I am going to sound really judgemental saying this, but I feel like a lot of people who don't connect with Charlie haven't been through similar things. I have dealt with addiction for over a decade. Feeling so shitty that you can't even bend over to pick up a key you dropped, that's straight up body horror. You have people that enable you and then use it as ammo. To me, Aronofsky's films are about humanization.

[@whalesequence]

You've gotta go through some crap to truly get this movie, I completely get your comment

[@hertexfas985]

I’ve had an unhealthy relationship with food and this film portrays it really well. It shows how we are always at war with our own self-control

[@ShotgunJo468]

I feel we also have to acknowledge Sadie Sinks character as to having “Abandonment rage”. I’m not sure if the audience caught on to that.

[@katejunita8353]

I wholeheartedly agree with you

[@dosumnboutit]

Absolutely, some people are calling this over dramatic but I thought it was a very real representation. Even the binge eating scene, people think is over the top. But, as someone who’s had bouts of binge eating, that’s what it looks like. Literally getting anything you can and consuming it as fast as possible.

[@evonekky3672]

I saw it in the theater and it broke me. I have been crying for two days. I have binge eating disorder and the way he portrayed binge eating literally made me gasp and sob in the theater. I also am a nurse and have worked with so many patients who we just can't save from themselves. As much as I will tell everyone this is an outstanding and beautiful film, it was also gut wrenching to watch and still has me feeling upset.

[@gilligan80]

Stop feeling sorry for yourself

[@gilligan80]

Imagine being born in a 3rd world country and raped and beaten every day and you still arent suicidal... stop feeling sorry for yourself ..Imagine living in a place someone can eat themselves to death

[@Shitfuckt]

Is it a disorder or poor choices? I got a bucket full of problems or challenging issues myself but I've finally stopped looking for and using excuses and I've begun to accept that at me age it all falls squarely on me. Not my past, not my disorders or ailments, not the government, not my upbringing, me, my choices and my actions/reactions. I wish you the best and just wanted to share that with you.

[@gilligan80]

@@Shitfuckt no shit ... good points

[@gilligan80]

@@Shitfuckt I don't wish anyone anything bad either... even if I talk that way... but people gotta understand....

[@Bootmahoy88]

I respectfully disagree with you. This was a deeply moving experience for me. I know addiction, although mine is not an eating disorder, I could relate four-by-four to his frustration, and especially with his Hurculean ability to see past his self-pity and self-loathing to accomplish something truly beautiful. That is a major triumph. Just thinking about it makes me tear up.

[@cineflect]

Beautifully said, Dan. While disagreement is always welcome here, respectful disagreement is the most appreciated :)

[@Bootmahoy88]

@@cineflectI respect peoples opinions, especially educated opinions as yours. I will never try to change anyone’s opinion, as if to say, you’re wrong and I’m right. No. We had different experiences. That’s all.

[@tarnishedpose]

@Blaise Pascal I have no strong feelings one way or the other

[@carsonaswell2809]

Baby

[@alonzoc537]

@@cineflect and this is in part why we love your channel. It's nice to see respectful disagreement on KZbin for once

[@basswars7060]

Brendan Fraser is a champion. He has struggled with a ruined back for years and he knows what it means to suffer. My mother and I had the great privilege to meet him at Fan Expo in Toronto. He was a true gentleman. He listened to my mother's story about her own back surgery and problems. He was extremely kind and sympathetic. He gave her a big hug, held her hands, and thanked her for coming to see him. Brendan Fraser is the greatest ambassador that Canada has ever had.

[@carltaylor2975]

That's an awesome story right there man. Sometimes a little bit of kindness towards a person can go a long way you know what I mean?

[@andresvalverde5182]

Don't forget the sexual harassment and rape allegations which i think are true. Getting groped on set and potentially raped behind the scenes is not something i'd wish my worst enemies.

[@gpo9835]

U forgot the part where he was sexually abused by Hollywood elites too he overcame that

[@gpo9835]

@@andresvalverde5182 ah u beat me too it !

[@rixyz7013]

@@andresvalverde5182 Brendan is such a good actor, back in his prime he did all of his stunts on his own and risked his life because he was so dedicated to his career. They turn around and blacklist him for speaking up about sexual abuse. Brendan is genuinely a good example of how men should be and thrive to become. Todays society teaches men they should “toughen up” and deal with the pain. Brendan expresses his emotions and brings joy into everyone’s heart, I mean you gotta love the guy. This man is one of my favourite and most deserving actor.

[@tejashdasgupta1840]

As a person who is overweight myself i can tell you this. No fat person will be offended by Fraser's portrayal as his weight is not what defines him in the film. He is a complicated character. His weight is seen as the embodiment of his self loathing and his desire to die rather than something like," ew, this fat person is so gross". Edit: why the fuck are there rightoids in the comments railing against an imaginary strawmen of the left. Edit: holy shit, this post is still getting likes and comments.

[@moregardening5014]

Exactly! The only people offended are thin people on our behalf. Just let us speak, thank you

[@fivehead6675]

Absolutely agree

[@655321able]

@@balthasardenner5216 Oh, here we go...

[@PotatoL001]

@@655321able It's true. People who promote "body positivity" are literally saying "if you work out you're fat phobic" and "if you dont want to date a fat person you're fat phobic". SJW's are insane

[@vixxxenfoxxx3660]

@@655321able why did you say 'here we go'? The person isn't wrong. Most of the people complaining are from the Body Positivity/Obese is Healthy/Eff your Beauty Standards groups that are left leaning. These groups align with far left ideas such as bio men can have babies and trans or fully men & women. The left are the more tolerant and accepting. Am I wrong?

[@julianauston9001]

Hey man, I’m morbidly obese and I loved this movie. Like a lot. I cried in theaters and I don’t cry at movies. It’s also not fat phobic, it’s fucking accurate.

[@MunkEMann]

you should do some cardio

[@angelo08280]

Are you Morbiusly serious?

[@j.s.ospina9861]

°~°

[@wildgeeses]

Dude, yeah. It seems like any portrayal of an overweight individual that isn't constantly infused with messages about how happy and beautiful they are is fatphobic. So weird. The projection/denial is crazy...

[@Myth_or_Mystery76]

You're biased. Of course you liked it.

[@themetatruthengineer1442]

I saw The Whale in theaters. I thought, as a parent myself whose experienced trauma, that this movie was brilliant and a true piece of art. If you have experienced trauma, been shunned by society, have in any way experienced anything that was shown in The Whale...this really got to you. This was beautiful and wonderful. I would have given it a 5 out of 5.

[@NobuhikuObayashi]

Totally agree! I recommend triangle of sadness, another 2022 gem

[@SteveCarras]

i just did,too,witth a good friend...enjoyed it, sad, and an eding I won't give, but he manages to do with teenage daughter Ellie had wanted him to do as she walked out the door...get up and walk. RIGHT near the end. WHat happens THEN, though, I won't reveal!

[@Tinydigs]

Yes, I loved it, but it seems to be getting bad reviews. I think people who are touched by it can relate on some level

[@MarcusMoji]

You perfectly encapsulated my feelings after watching it.

[@jfr1995]

Anybody who thinks his performance is meant to make people think ‘fat people are disgusting’ just doesn’t get it. His character is so intelligent, well-spoken, and kind. Imo the audience is meant to feel for him, not make fun of him or think he’s disgusting. It’s meant to highlight the ‘tragedy’ of somebody so capable, kind and well-spoken falling prey to an addiction to the extent that it ruins their life.

[@equissage9701]

People who abandon their kids for a gay lifestyle are disgusting.

[@normalprofile5553]

@naggerssuck Okay, “naggerssuck.” Clearly you’re just a 12 year old kid that’s developing early

[@leifrausch9517]

@naggerssuck shut up

[@eliskakordulova]

well said

[@sugarpansies]

@naggerssuck just because you get an addiction doesn’t make you weaker than someone else

[@ktoth29]

I had a professor who was morbidly obese and obviously only teaching for health benefits... he would break down in tears in class because he couldn't physically get through it. It was sad to watch.

[@cineflect]

😔

[@justaguyonyoutube4592]

Good faith for your professor, let’s hope he gets better.

[@MsTinkerbelle87]

Praying for him!

[@doggy3327]

:(

[@takingapu]

🤣🤣🤣 gold! Wow! Big brain comment!!

[@jtnachos16]

The truth is, in this story, people aren't disgusted by the character's body, but by the attitude he has developed, by his depression. The movie's intent isn't 'fat is disgusting, look at this pig', it's 'look at how this person's issues destroyed his body and mind, and left him struggling to crawl back out of that hole'.

[@MNcoquicoqui]

EXACTLY 🎯 💯

[@adorablecenturion8436]

The people who see it as 'fatphobia' just simply can't critically think and see the movie for what it really is because they're mentally underdeveloped lmao

[@nathanjackson9066]

Well said

[@MsTinkerbelle87]

THIS!

[@lukasribin4168]

Um plenty of the characters are portrayed as being disgusted by his physical form. So stop blaming it on his “personality”. You’re probably the same type of person who makes fun of people for their looks or treats them differently and then turns around and blames them for their own mistreatment because you won’t admit to your prejudice.

[@foxless4117]

This movie reminded me of my father. How he left and went through this downward spiral of addiction too alcohol and food. His gluttony. It tied to me aswell with past weight struggles. Charlie even shared my father eyes, the same tired blue with red obscuring the white. It was honestly too much for me. It was good but it destroyed me so much I feel like I enjoyed it less. It just hit to close to home

[@cineflect]

I can't imagine going through that in real life and then seeing a film that closely resembles it. I wish you nothing but the best.

[@carolyningalls4580]

The trailor just broke me

[@davewagenheim]

I drew similar comparisons to my dad. They even share the same name! It was an intense movie, full of heavy emotions.

[@RSmith-qd2uk]

Yeah, I'm avoiding it for similar reasons. Lucky for those who think it's "unrealistic" but I'm happy to sit this film out, as it looks like the reactions some people have to this film is maybe being privileged enough not to have seen these struggles close up in real life with people they love.

[@adorablecenturion8436]

This movie reminds me too much of my father rn, it's disturbing to me. I see it for what it is, he's broken, depressed and doesn't know what to do anymore.

[@Djlines91]

Never left a cinema so drained like I was after this movie. It was just incredible.

[@doreno189]

Did you ever see Midsommer?? That’s the most drained I’ve been after a movie or Silence the 2016 Scorsese film

[@mood1676]

I saw avatar: the way of the water last night and got bored so I had my gf give me dome for all 8 hours of that shitfest. I felt so drained after

[@swarthygiant1463]

@Mood**% booooooooooo

[@mood1676]

@@swarthygiant1463 I know right?! Avatar was so bad I was boooing too. Glad we can agree

[@Digger-Nick]

@@doreno189 Midsommer was doodoo

[@gonzacollao]

Brendan Fraser absolutely deserves this comeback and the love he has received from fans all around the world, and even more. I can’t express how happy I am to see him back in movies, he was a huge part of my childhood

[@keyser9537]

To be honest, I don't think he'll actually be making a big comeback, he just got the perfect role that also aligns a lot with what he's been through. As much as he deserves the oscar for this, he'll probably stay where he was before. Think of Mickey Rourke or Michael Keaton, same thing happened with them. It's a temporal resurrection, only for one big role.

[@heartdragon2386]

@@keyser9537 I disagree. I don't think he will be the kind of leading man he was before, but he's shown in several recent performances that he still has the chops for character depth and drama. Just because he isn't an action hero, doesn't mean he isn't a successful actor.

[@CJusticeHappen21]

This movie hits the most when you have someone in your life that you are actively observing destroy themselves. Maybe that's your family member. Maybe it's a friend. Maybe it's yourself. I dunno. I liked it. Charlie's self-loathing/self-pity was physically hard to watch And ultimately it gave me feels. That's the difference between good art and bad art; does it make you feel, or does it make you numb?

[@williehaller5840]

My birth family drove me to destroy myself before I was born. You'd be surprised how often people in families eat each other and at the same time they're "upset about your behavior because they care about you" they're actually the perpetrators turning you against yourself. The subtle tricks my birth family used to get me to choke to death or kill myself since I was, like I said, a baby...the greatest monsters wear human clothes.

[@jasminedragon7360]

This movie was powerful for me as an addict. Brendan’s face when he ate the candy was so accurate. Especially if you get to a point where you know it’s killing you but you can’t stop.

[@sliceoflife4220]

I'm an alcholic with a 13 year old kid, im scared to watch this movie. She knows im a loser

[@jasminedragon7360]

@@sliceoflife4220 it’s a hard watch, so if you’re struggling with sobriety I would wait, I pushed myself to watch it because I love Brendan Fraser. Sending you love and strength, it’s not over❤️

[@stone-desert8097]

yeah i feel you, i think people don´t see and miss the point of the movie. It was a catarsis especially to see your self in the mirror on Charlie to not let your addiction take over like it does to him. I find funny the youtuber owner give you a like to your comment after the review he gave.

[@sliceoflife4220]

@@jasminedragon7360 Thanks

[@simply.classic5933]

I'm not a cinema person, not at all, but as someone who struggles with binge eating disorder, and someone who has watched someone die at its hands. The feelings that Charlie struggles with and watching these extremely intense feelings be played out is extremely cathartic. This movie left me shaking and sobbing. I think its a tragic portray that unless you have experienced addiction, or and eating disorder first hand this movie may not hit home. This movie for me was more about Humanizing the fat experience.

[@cineflect]

Thank you for sharing your experience. It's clear that this film is having a profound effect on many people.

[@user-UCdTwcniaJXNCkOLhUhN794g]

I like what you had to say about Sadie and the actress portraying her mother. I think they all rehearsed the show for 3 weeks before filming... maybe sticking to the play as much as possible before getting any cameras involved. It was an interesting movie, and I think Brenden deserves an Oscar for his performance.

[@systemofadown945]

I thought the mom was good, sadie sink was a little annoying

[@user-UCdTwcniaJXNCkOLhUhN794g]

@@systemofadown945 I think Sadie Sink was supposed to be THAT type of person, it was in the character. In her eyes, her dad ditched her entire family and cheated with a student, now he wants to randomly contact her? She ramped up that fiery Max personality I know her from. I hope she isn't typecast more as that type of teen though

[@Nursegirlalexandra]

The play was so much better lol imo. They left out some things and added others in the movie. Brandon was Amazing though

[@AnotherGenericUsername]

I know nothing about binge eating but I'm very familiar with hurting yourself while having faith in others. That's what broke me about the film. Everyone is seeing in through superficial eyes and not seeing the bigger picture. I believe Hong Chau definitely deserves recognition, she was absolutely amazing

[@Karuna4T]

Love your comment.

[@williehaller5840]

The bigger picture? Is that a fat joke?

[@ohdamnman]

There is absolutely no way you could possibly show addiction and all of its truth without it becoming grotesque. This is a situation when you are in the center of an addiction where one is actually in hell any person who's gone through addiction or seen someone go through it or has family members gone through it and it had that experience will tell you it is actual hell and it is grotesque.

[@cineflect]

Great point, Jemel.

[@valmacclinchy]

Exactly 💯 Think about Requiem For a Dream...addiction is grotesque, and too often, fatal.

[@caliban5505]

I think Charlie and Liz’s relationship in particular was so unique and lovely compared to a lot of the cliched and surface level character pairings we had this year. It was really something I hadn’t seen and I was really moved by their complex love for each other.

[@cineflect]

Yeah, their scenes are far and away the best parts of the film.

[@magda386]

He was al asshole to her. He let her suffer needlessly. Lied about the money. She was the one making lots of sacrifices to help him, believing he had no other choice. Probably exhausted emotionally and physically and feeling devastated because she believed that her friend didn't have the means to save himself. He was actually a really selfish person

[@magda386]

@@semperdeinceps7980 that point being???

[@magda386]

@@semperdeinceps7980 the moment you turned this into a personal attack, you lost the discussion. I did pay more than "a little attention", more than you apparently. And I didn't "miss the point". OP was talking about his relationship with Lizz so that's what I'm giving my opinion about and I insist, he was an asshole TO HER. Ignoring someone's needs and making their life miserable (even if it's in favor of someone else) when that can be avoided makes you a terrible person. He should've told Lizz the truth and let her decide if she still wanted to dedicate so much of her time and pain to him. She was a lovely person, he wasn't. But that's my opinion, you are welcome to have you own

[@magda386]

@@semperdeinceps7980 there is no need to talk about me at all. It doesn't add anything of value to the discussion. I'm not defensive, I'm just aware that people lose the discussion at that point. That's when I know I don't need to add anything else to support my point of view. But again, you are welcome to your own opinion

[@JoeBloww762]

I deliver for doordash and have attended food addiction support groups so I know people like Charlie. This movie told a story that I’ve personally never seen told before in a way that had me engaged the entire movie. The movie really tries hard to make you cry and for me it succeeded. I’ve never cried harder watching a movie.

[@berryseinfeld6772]

As a recovering alcoholic, this movie brought me to tears. I view eating disorders no differently than substance abuse - and the fact that his wife was an alcoholic was so sadly poetic. Immensely moving film.

[@rickallen9099]

Meh.

[@robbyroos1409]

And Allen starved himself to death, opposite of charlie

[@deborahfairbanks4012]

The binge eating scene is spot on. I was bulimic for 14 years. Yes, folks, that is how binging looks, at least the way I binged. I still have a struggle with my relationship with food at 69 and my family. I found this movie to be extremely real for me. This is someone who "swallows back" his own emotional baggage to desperately try to please others. I loved it.

[@soyatzirinavarro]

Same here. For me it felt so real. The guilt, the sadness... Ive some issues with bulimia too and yeah. I totally get you. Loved it too.

[@cjrdeveaux]

Regardless of how anyone feels about this film, Brendan Fraser deserves and Oscar, a Golden Globe and a SAG award for his performance. And anyone who complains that it's about fat shaming and the use of a fat suit etc is wrong, must remember it's called acting, and Brendan does just that perfectly in this role. He is amazing. I am so glad to see him back on the screen and can't wait to see more from him.

[@paradiseb5950]

Yeah if you’re not celebrating obesity these days you get canceled. Sick society we live in…

[@justinchan3560]

When I first saw the whale it broke me open. From the beginning I had tears in my eyes and I could hear many others crying too. By the end scene of the film I along with almost the entire audience was was crying. I cried through the whole credits and had an emotional conversation with the theatre staff about to clean the auditorium and one of them was even crying during the ending also. This was a wonderful experience for me and I would personally rank it as tied with everything everywhere all at once as the saddest movie of the year.

[@chelseapoet3664]

But EEAAO has a happy ending.......I suppose if you believe Charlie goes to heaven this one does too. But not for atheists.....

[@lemonasticlaifu1505]

It honestly feels like the people complaining at the movie for being fatphobic have not experience being overweight and feel powerless over your food addiction. I think we need more honest portrayals of the struggles of emotional eating so people actually understand the struggle of these people. Body positivity sounds good on principle but it's not helpful for people that are overweight because of mental health and are desperate because it doesn't seem like they can overcome it.

[@alevalencia330]

Completely agree. People think we’re just fat because we’re lazy 🤪 but being through a traumatic experience that leads to binge eating is not an easy thing to live with, let alone to be able to overcome. Feeling that powerlessness against food and often feeling like the worst person alive after eating it is not exclusive to EDs like anorexia an bulimia, and people need to see that everyone struggling with any kind of ED deserves understanding and is fighting a very big battle. Loved the movie and the portrayal of those emotions, somehow felt understood.

[@zeinaalawar]

Exactly. If I have to hear from one more skinny idiot about how the film is fatphobic, I will scream. It honestly feels like they care more about being seen as morally superior than about our health and wellbeing. I'm not saying I want people to hurl fatphobic abuse at me, but how about some nuance? How about recognizing that for some of us use food as an instrument for self-harm. It doesn't make us less valuable as people but it is an illness that has to be treated, and those who want to help us can work towards making treatment resources more widely available.

[@BaedekerBat]

When the film ended EVERY PERSON in the theater (myself included) was perfectly still for ten minutes. I’ve never experienced anything like that reaction before. We were all processing in silence before any of us got to our feet, like when you wake after an intense dream and you stay in the position you woke up in while piecing together the dream. It was like that.

[@Sophie-ub1wx]

When I saw this in the theatre I had a similar experience. When the credits started rolling the whole room was silent and nobody moved for a good while.

[@kjstrainrun7746]

Being a huge Elvis fan I thought Austin Butler was amazing in Elvis and should of won best actor this year. But after seeing the whale and the emotion and acting skills Brenden had in this movie i think he should take the award. I wanted to see this movie since I seen he was making a comeback, and I'm glad I did. What a great performance and a great story.

[@johnsonken96]

After watching the movie, nobody spoke. Usually people whisper or chat a little as they exit. But this time everyone just quietly gathered their things and left. I think it really left a memorable mark on the audience.

[@robertcraigashby9836]

It's a tough one. You see a character that is a good person trapped by emotional pain, loss, mistakes of the past, addiction, and a matryr complex (he keeps thinking about others in particular his daugther vs. getting himself to a hospital and hopefully some kind of treatment program). I would have like to see him overcame it, get better, but speaking as a former alchoholic I know not everyone can get out of it.

[@danielcubides5170]

Man, the whole theather I was, (including myself) were weeping and sobbing when the movie ended. Even when i was driving back home, with my girlfriend right beside me, we couldn't contain our tears and we hugged, telling each other how much we loved and fortunate enough of being together, safe and sound. This is not only a movie, is the definition of humanity itself. I'm looking forward to rewatch it again but I'm not ready, at least not for now. This films holds an incredible power, no one is safe from breaking down after visualizing Brendan Fraser's role. Specially the last 15 minutes, i was crying like a newborn child

[@berryseinfeld6772]

Ah I love hearing this. I was holding back totally sobbing in the theater. I’m very happy I went alone.

[@soroushbaghadam6291]

I experienced the same. Was the first time in my whole life.

[@SRG.nation]

What a few people don’t understand is the raw truth of life not always being beautiful. I’ve seen this man. I’ve been this man. Addiction, depression, and the feeling of being sorry is a truth to so many. This movie captures the raw emotion so many hide deep in a closet buried behind a fake smile.

[@chrisanderson2748]

This is the first review I've seen talking about the overuse of the music, and I agree 100%. There were many moments when it just seemed a little too on the nose for me. 10/10 performances from Fraser and Chau, 6/10 movie overall.

[@netero6751]

Ending could of hit harder tbh

[@ld256]

people calling this movie fatphobic is ridiculous. As an overweight person myself, I have had to struggle with many of the problems Charlie has, and I felt a resounding connection of my life with his. Being that big should not be " body positive ". We are killing ourselves , and this movie has honestly pushed me to finally make that change, and save my own life

[@sarahberkner]

That's good to hear, I hated watching the movie tbh but also I hoped it might encourage someone to make a change. I hope you stick to it! :)

[@Liz-cmc313]

I haven't seen it yet but I'm a huge fan of Fraser and I truly hope he gets the Oscar.

[@cineflect]

At this point I think the only one standing in his way is Colin Farrell, who I think deserves it. At the end of the day, I'd be happy to see either of them win it.

[@ethanburns4011]

@@cineflectColin Farrell is an interesting pick. I watched Banshees of Inersherin and loved Colin Farrell didn’t think Oscar worthy though. I’m wondering why you believe he deserves it and maybe change my perspective?

[@ShotgunJo468]

I don’t find the movie to be “fatphobic”. A part of it is real life experience of people who are in such a position. And as a member of the audience, many of us look at his character and feel sad as well as a measure of cringe for the character because he has reached such a unhealthy lifestyle and weight. And no that’s not fatphobic to say that. It’s our inner compassion that feels “I wish Charlie was more mentally and physically healthier, I feel terrible for him and his current position.” To say that we should accept Charlie at his current weight is NOT compassionate. Because we leave him to die at his own expense instead of accepting the fact that he will die in part of his mental and physical state.

[@sweetpeaon3]

The Whale was my first A24 film that I saw in theaters. This movie will always have a special place in my heart because of that. The confrontation Charlie has with the missionary boy on the reality of Charlie's relationship with his partner was one of my favorite scenes and, to me, felt like such good representation. Charlie was so in love, his depression was evidence of it. I hope people don't take away the queerness built into this movie intentionally because of fear of misunderstanding.

[@joshcantrell8397]

Who cares about it being A24? I saw hereditary in theatres, and it wasn’t all that it was cracked up to be.

[@sweetpeaon3]

@@joshcantrell8397 Uh, I do. The Lighthouse and Midsommar gave me experiences I've never had before when watching movies. I'm not blindly saying that all A24 films are great or even of equal value, but I recognize the company is often going to be behind some very interesting films that actually resonate with me.

[@MrOcto13]

As someone who is morbidly obese at 41 percent. I admire this movie and it's message. How dreadful food addiction can be. Just like alcohol and narcotics, it can ruin someone's life.

[@debtwiss]

I’ve been living with someone for twenty years whose active and horrific addiction destroyed his own life, almost brought down my children and me, and is now disabled and waiting to die. The Whale hit hard. It allowed a glimmer of compassion to enter my heart which has grown so helpless regarding the individual in my house. I truly see this as a brilliant film.

[@chelseapoet3664]

I find it very beautiful that this film allowed a little bit of compassion in for you. Really, that's moving. I am curious to know if that person watched it too?

[@rob5541]

I'm a huge fan of the movie. I'm less hard on mellowdramas than most, and I don't necessarily think faithful stage adaptations are a minus for cinema. We don't always have to leave room just because the medium can.

[@lorenfranz3173]

I saw The Whale two nights ago and even though I thought the performances were all excellent, the subject matter is definitely very difficult to truly understand. I myself am an obese person and the struggles are very real. I mean, I'm not as big as the main character in this movie, but trauma can really change your life in the worst ways. I know a lot of people have heard stories of individuals who suffered terribly and eventually recovered. But not everyone who experiences trauma recovers, and eventually the consequences of addiction will kill them.

[@sarahberkner]

You seem to understand it pretty well, that it's not so much the trauma after a certain point, but the addiction itself. Just wanted to encourage you that trying to move on and let go doesn't mean whatever happened was okay, but that it doesn't need to hurt you for the rest of your life. Sorry if that sounds like an empty platitude, I don't mean it to be.

[@TheInstantClassic86]

I thought it was meh, but Brandon Fraser should win the Oscar. Our king gave the best performance of a lifetime.

[@static-x1johnny690]

I stopped the video at 0:39. This movie had me in fucking tears, movies like this are amazing and scary to watch because of how real it is. People on this earth go through things like that even if it’s not specifically this disorder. This movie was the best movie of 2022 my personal opinion

[@yungtux8770]

If the movies at a 93% for audience scores then it’s definitely doing something right. People are FEELING something when they watch it, and it compels them to contribute to a positive score.

[@PainInTheS]

Exactly......low 'critics' scores usually mean a movie is decent to great.When they give high scores you probably have a (woke) disaster. When 'critics' score vs audience score differ a lot it says it all......NEVER go with the 'critics' score. 'Critics' scores have to be used in reverse......such sad (activist) sacks they are. 🤣

[@tokenofdevotion]

​@@PainInTheS depends on when the movie was released tbh. Also, scores don't mean anything unless you read Xd

[@gabrielathomas4783]

One review of this movie infuriated me, wherein it stated: "A hard-to-watch sequence in which Charlie eats his way through most of the contents of his fridge in a self-destructive binge reminded me of Aronofsky’s drug-addiction horror show Requiem for a Dream, a film I have never forgiven for grossing me out without providing enough meaning or beauty to make the experience worthwhile." THE ENTIRE POINT of both of these movies is to display a form of addiction. This person clearly doesnt understand the impact or toll these two things have on someone and does not know their perspective. I am 19 years old and over weight, I am a 230 pound lesbian girl that has never felt so represented. I am on a path of recovery, not of self discovery. I will be the first to admit that. Being overweight or not meeting society's standards is perfectly okay!!! There have bee times where I was comfortable in my skin even though I wasn't the skinniest. But then, COVID hit and ALL I could do was eat. It is bad, and anyone in my position should be the first to admit it. There was times where I related too much to Charile, and this movie managed to humaze and motivate me at the same time. Binge eating should "gross you out", but also make you feel connected to the events on screen. Sorry thats the end of my rant!

[@ret4kind]

Everyone is praising Brendan, but if you've ever seen a work by Darren Aronofsky all his work is like this. What really impressed me is how Darren is working harder each film to mix the ordinary with the extraordinary. Films are supposed to help us transcend that line between reality and fantasy: Darren's earlier works like Pi and The Fountain (my favorite) do a good job of this. While The Fountain is my favorite, The Whale was better storytelling and easier for people to understand. It's by far the most impactful film he's created and I look forward to his next project.

[@WhatWereYouWatching]

"Let the internet devour itself"..... this is the way.

[@CorbCorbin]

The internet is on that Keto diet.

[@anniegaston6377]

Best comment 😂

[@lionheartroar3104]

One of the most moving films I've ever seen. Bravo Brendan Fraser.

[@ericad8412]

I saw this as an honest portrayal of a man suffering from his mental illness in a physical form. This film is saying there are extremes that we put ourselves through whether it's because of shame or guilt, it inevitably decomposes the body, mind, and spirit. I am glad I watched this film but cannot see to pull myself together emotionally since having an eating disorder has been my own private hell. I am still functioning and go to the gym so no one truly sees my pain but it's been following me for years. I have so much love for Brendon for taking on this role.

[@sarahberkner]

I would say we all have things we struggle with, not all with addiction, but a lot of people are addicted to social media and don't know it. I think it's good that you recognize you have an issue and have been dealing with it, although it's okay to tell someone if that would help ease the burden, preferably someone who can help keep you accountable.

[@uhuhuh1966]

I’ve never seen critics so divided on a film before, like didn’t YMS give it a 9? Insane, I haven’t seen it yet

[@cineflect]

Wow, did he really? I haven't watched his review. As with any divided movie, it's best to see it for yourself and see where you land. Let me know if you do!

[@Greyseabee]

Darren Aronofsky is brilliant at visibly portraying addiction, grief, desperation really showing humanity at their lowest point and humanizing them. I haven’t seen the whale yet but I have seen requiem for a dream and been a lifelong fan. I was a heroin addict for 10 years and used fentanyl in the end and I can tell you he portrayed addiction perfectly. I am excited to see what he has to show with the whale

[@AM-tw9qq]

I appreciated that all the side characters quietly indulge in their own destructive vices throughout the movie, but only the damage of Charlie's vice is visible at all times. His caretaker smokes, his ex-wife is an alcoholic, etc.

[@kphistry]

This movie is not about fat people. It’s about trauma. Deep and profound trauma. Abandonment, grief, self loathing, and the intertwined horror of love and suicide can destroy lives but perhaps can also save one, maybe two young lives. This film had me grasping my pillow, sharing in the low sad bottom of Charlie’s life. It made me cry for the one last shot at redemption. It made my heart break in that the suffering of all of these people could have been avoided if acceptance was cherished. One decision, one path of allowing love to blossom could have saved everyone.

[@Big_Red200]

The Whale mentally ordered me to go for a walk, then lift my dusty weights. Also, I absolutely love this movie.

[@christinamussared2285]

I loved it. It feels real. Anyone who says this movie is fatphobic doesn't have a morbidly obese loved one. I do and he is like this. This is the reality for many people. I also loved how they didn't swing one way or the other when it comes down to if he's a (good or bad) guy. In reality no one is perfect. We all have good and evil about us. And I think the director and his performance worked together to create a realistic and honest character. Of course some people don't like it. They don't want to see this side of life. Standing up and saying this is ridiculing obese people is not only incorrect. It does them a disservice. There are real Charlie's in the world. And that world is never pretty.

[@Hydrus96]

I absolutely loved this movie it broke me as well while I dont have the weight issue part I related to Charlie allot on the level of depression and loosing a loved one my wife left me 6 months ago she didnt die but how she left was terrible so I related to him on that. I also related on the level of anxiety that is portrayed. This is one absolutely beautiful movie although it is a hard watch especially for people who have similar issues

[@Tigers_and_Tarot]

Brendan knows what it's like to struggle with his weight and his emotions. He understands the feeling of being scrutinized and abandoned. He put every part of his soul into this. He should be proud.

[@trudybee8183]

The Whale hit home in so many ways. I related to Sadie Sink’s character, Ellie. I was an angry, disappointed, and hurt child. My father is a gay man and left his family to live with his partner. But most importantly, to live his identity. I went through a lot of emotional and physical hardship to understand this and why it happened. I blamed my mom, brother, and sisters for the reason he left. I hated everyone, including myself. I ran away with my father when I was five years old. I left with him because I felt no one loved him, and I felt alone (authorities call it kidnapped & he did go to prison). I didn’t hear the truth about his sexuality until I was a teenager, and my father explained it himself. He always loved my mother and asked about her (even when she remarried and had other children). Did it break our family? It sure did, and the effects are everlasting even through forgiveness (triggers, PTSD, depression, anxiety, anger, addiction). The movie broke me in the scene when Charlie explains to his daughter how much he admires and loves her, “You are an amazing person, Ellie, and I couldn’t ask for a more incredible daughter.” He didn't want her to grow up with hatred in her heart, and I felt that my father wanted the same for me.

[@chelseapoet3664]

Thank you for sharing your story. It really resonates with me because I have forgiven 3/4 of my family for what they did to me despite the ongoing effects. But my brother I still struggle with. I won't go into details, the main thing I wanted to say is just to echo the power of forgiveness. I believe everyone is doing their best and hurt people hurt people, as they say.

[@bellebridgewater2117]

The Whale isn't made for everybody. That's why I don't think there was strong advertising for it. But being someone who relates to Ellie (though not as extreme as portrayed in the movie), it was the small things in the movie that broke me. The way Charlie moved on the couch, never truly being able to look behind him, the wheezing and coughing fits that would go on just enough to make others worry if it may progress into something more, and the way how you would feel so small compared to them that there's an extreme limit to how much you can help them. People who claim this movie is fatphobic aren't truly recognizing the movie's message. What's so tragic about The Whale is how we know how it's going to end, and we can only watch as this man continues to harm himself to the end. Even with so many people around him who love and care for them (each with their own limits, but very much expressing concern for him in some way), he accepts what will happen, and that's the worst thing that can happen to someone you love. No matter how much you love them, and they still take their own life, it seems like your love wasn't enough.

[@wisnoskij]

I liked the part where Brendon Fraser yelled, "It's Whalin time!" and starting whaling everyone.

[@cineflect]

Definitely one of the highlights. How about when he blew off that lady's head with a shotgun, turned to the camera, winked and said, "Ar, she blows!"

[@NutritionPolice]

Now this, this I would watch

[@Jodah175]

Call me a simpleton, but this movie hit me hard. I saw myself in Charlie and how much he struggled. I saw and understood the choices he made because I've been there. In that dark abyss where it seems like there is no way out. Some days I'm still in that dark place. Some days I'm not. Him not having the will to even pick up a dropped key, a man who was at one point so capable that anything was possible. Made me realize a few things about myself that I don't like and need to change. It's not easy, and never will be easy for some. But, the best things in life aren't easy.

[@ruhznay]

I think that it's a wonderful representation of not working through grief in a healthy manner in the same way that alcoholics or drug addicts use their preferred substances to cope with or numb emotional or physical pain. Charlie uses food to fill a void that can never be filled. It's sad but not in a grotesque or humiliating way but in a very real and very human way. Charlie's weight and the issues that come with it are very real. As an individual who was once obese, I can honestly say that I was well aware I was fat and I felt disgusted with myself and how unhealthy I was and didn't need anyone to remind me of the fact. Being fat alone took a mental toll on me and an even greater one when it was met with harsh judgement. Occasionally people think that telling a fat person they're gross or unhealthy or that telling an alcoholic that they're a lazy drunkard will cause a revelation and a change in behavior but in reality it might cause the problem to get much worse. Addicts of any kind be it food, alcohol, drugs, sex, gambling and so on, need a healthy dose of kindness and compassion but more so than ever truth, honesty and firm boundaries and there is a way to be honest and truthful without passing judgement and a way to set boundaries without keeping people out. Those things in my personal opinion are the difference between recovery and relapse.

[@sarahberkner]

It was a grotesque movie, I wouldn't call an obese person gross but addiction is a terrible thing and it's okay to admit that. Charlie was also a bad person, he left his family for his boyfriend (I didn't watch the whole movie but that's what the daughter said and he didn't argue). I like Brendan Fraser and I'm glad he won an award, and definitely addicts need compassion.

[@miglehp4592]

I would have to disagree with the score, I think the direction and Brendan's Performance are both amazing, there's a lot of symbolism with the film, even choosing 4:3 instead of 16:9 aspect ratio is part of it, the colors, the wardrobe, they all have a reason for being. Charlie is self destructing and he has made a lot of mistakes but yet there's what he thinks its his last shot at redemption and his obsesed, and I think particulary the ending scene is amazing, as Charlie has done nothing to improve himself but managing to find the strength to stand up as his last attempt to show his daughter he acomplished something as she reads the essay out loud. I might have to rewatch it soon, but the music never felt to me like it overshadowed the dialogue.

[@niklastorshagen6365]

You're brave to criticize this movie, alone, but brave I'm not agreeing with you btw

[@feartheb33k33p3r]

I went to see it last night and was utterly blown away. Having been trying to stay off whiskey for a few months now, and having known many people with EDs (albeit not binge EDs), I think the Whale works a lot better from either a perspective about addiction or a case study of the homophobic and downright lonely Midwest. To me, though, it's a film about brutal honesty, with yourself and with the world at large. (this comment has spoilers) Each of the six characters that actually speak all _seem_ to see Charlie in different ways (i.e. a deadbeat dad, the one who walked out, the only remainder of one's brother, someone to guide spiritually, the recluse who orders pizza a lot), but ultimately, it boils down to all of them finding him varying levels of disgusting, and they all somewhat hate _themselves,_ as well, especially once those who _don't know_ finally see what's become of him. I think what really tied it together for me was the symbolism. I know a lot of it was very unsubtle, but I still loved it - I even saw the aspect ratio as a way to make his apartment feel more cramped than it already was. There were also the numerous comparisons to Moby Dick, in the literal form of one's juvenile interpretation and in the not-so-subtle costuming and portrayals (i.e. Charlie is a great white whale, Mary is his Captain Ahab, Thomas is his Ishmael, etc...) and I thought the music was phenomenal as well, despite its volume. It really does resemble whalesong in some moments, specifically in the opening, and I think it works fantastically. The last thing I realized, though, is the fact that it is _always raining._ There are almost no scenes where the weather is clear - the only times being when Charlie is drugged, or at the very end. His emotional intensity corresponds to how loud the storm is outside, and the weather is always awful. The Whale is a film that made me deeply, viscerally uncomfortable - and goddamn it, I loved every second.

[@feartheb33k33p3r]

my only gripe with it is that Liz's audio for some reason was always peaking, though? like, no matter how loud she was talking, there was fuzz during her lines

[@MR_THINQ]

I personally know someone who is actually like this in real life, every time I see him it breaks my heart. His life is a total tragedy, he lives on his sofa, he can barely walk, has multiple medical conditions and all because of one fateful event… he fell over walking down the road to help a friend. He had to have an operation on his ankle that went wrong and as a result got lymphedema. He then got diabetes, water retention a heart condition and put on 40 stones. He uses a heavy duty frame to move and goes to toilet in a bucket he has positioned by the sofa as he can’t walk to get to the toilet. He’s lived like this for 6 years now. It’s so tragic and breaks my heart as he is one of the nicest guys you could ever know. God bless you Melvin Gibbs.

[@kendralucas9809]

Look, my 18 son wanted to see this. So we went. I’m a crier, so it’s obvious I was emotional. But when Fraser said I want to give something good into the world about his daughter, my son starting sobbing. We held hands. The movie is also about family relationships, and when the screen turned white, the light…we were just stunned. My son mentioned the score was amazing.

[@vermin5367]

Absolutely, the films themes of honesty, love, and the value of family all displayed in a self destructive and cynical environment really hit me hard.

[@aztro4010]

People who call this fatphobic can't seem to handle the harsh realities of being obese.

[@Jabullz]

In the book Moby Dick, the whale is not literally white. It's a normal gray sperm whale that appears white from the amount of scars it has sustained. The music is a constant in the film as the crashing of waves and water would be on a ship at sea. The whale doesn't care about it's life or living, it's just a whale, it survives until it doesn't. It doesn't learn anything, just like Brenden doesn't (he left his daughter and he's doing it again). This story is about his daughter. She's just not the main character.

[@lauram3115]

I truly hope he wins an Oscar for his performance. I am rooting for this to be his massive comeback! ❤

[@lostcitybird]

i cant stop crying because of this movie i watched it like a week ago now and it still makes me sob

[@meh1988]

where can i watch it

[@duhbaws2705]

Its fucking good.

[@Cymricus]

i’m a fat gay and i give brendon my blessing and my card for this role

[@cineflect]

Haha, noted!

[@jacobladder9902]

I agree with nearly everything you've said. I remember when I was considered an Hipster for liking Darren's work now I'm one for hating his latest? Sad to see people misrepresenting your arguments as well.

[@cineflect]

Haha, once a hipster, always a hipster ;) Yeah, for some reason being critical of what is a very polarizing film has struck a nerve. It's strange, but I don't let it phase me. I believe the type of people who cannot handle hearing an opinion different from their own are the vocal minority. The irony is, they are acting completely opposite of Charlie.

[@mementomori9499]

After reading a bunch of comments, I think I finally understand why there's such a split opinion on this movie. From my perspective, as someone who hasn't talked to my dad in more than 2 years because of his neglect, this movie really spoke to me and I cried throughout it and personally loved it to bits. At the same time though, I can understand how it's harder to enjoy this movie if you can't relate to it, meaning you never really went though any of the things that were portrayed in the film, so it's hard to truly understand what Charlie and the other characters went through. Despite this, I still think even if I didn't have a personal way to relate to the film, it still deserves a 10/10 because of the flawless acting and just the fact that the whole movie took place in a single room with only 4 people, and yet was still able to portray a life's worth of sadness and suffering.

[@sarahberkner]

True, I hated watching the movie but I have a good family and try to avoid the toxic people the movie is full of- I'm not just talking about Charlie (he's toxic for leaving his family). The nurse is nice but she enables him. I did volunteer at a homeless shelter for a while and do have compassion on people who suffer from addiction- but that didn't make it enjoyable to watch. I like Brendan as an actor though and I'm glad he won an award.

[@mementomori9499]

@@sarahberkner Yeah I completely understand where you're coming from. I think in the end its all about perspective and where everyone comes from.

[@alexandrahindley]

"I just want to know that I've done one thing right in my life" Everyone can relate to that and ask themselves the very same thing, whether it be about family, a career, friends, etc etc. Such a powerful line in a powerful film that does make you think. That's what I took away from it. Have I done 1 thing right with my life. I thought about it after the film and I found it very very powerful. I loved the movie. xx

[@nitronical6762]

Everything you said is correct and valid only for me it worked. I like big brash operatic on the nose no subtlety movies. The characters psychological striving for honesty as reflected by his insistence that his students be honest, that his daughter is redeemable (due to her honesty) hit me. also, the depiction of food addiction and how that emotionally plays out was real and raw. one thing i do agree with you about is overuse of the score. didnt need it so often

[@devondixon8841]

I see what you're saying but it is a story that very well could possibly be happening to many right now in real life. The character was more recognizable to actual people in my life than any other character I've seen in the last 20+yrs from Hollywood. I thought it was very well done.

[@hardliketissues7463]

I disagree with you in every single way. It seems as if you didn’t try to feel the film you just started feeling bad for a 600 pound man for an hour and a half. Watch it again without feeling like you have to throw a pity party. This is one of the best lower budget films I’ve ever watched as far as the immersion and feel of the film. It all felt so real and that it could happen to any single one of us. Definitely one of the best pieces Aronofsky has ever made.

[@anomonyous]

Wtf is going on. I went blind into this movie. And while I disliked Sadie Sinks' "performance", I loved it. When I tried looking it up online, all I see is people flipping their sh. Your review is unexpectedly negative, but at least it's not some weird ideological rant. Fraser made it for me. I have little negative things to say, I disliked Ellie's character (more than is meant) and Sinks' performance. Some choices were... not fully to my liking. Other than that? 9/10. Too short. First thing I thought was, "this would be perfect for a theater play." And lo and behold, it's an adaptation of one. I really liked it.

[@keithperdue4993]

I saw a different movie, one that had amazing acting, a difficult, painful, heavy topic addressed as never before. Not a feel good movie, but totally engrossing, moving & worthwhile. I weighed 400 lbs for a couple years & it changed my attitude about "fatties" totally. This movie is important in ways unfathomable to those who have never dealt with being overweight. This is a monumental film & will impact many folks for many years.

[@CosmoZap]

I think you don't understand this movie. Everybody has an opinion and critics opine on how they would have done it differently. I'm going to give you my perspective as a physician, novelist and a screenwriter. This film is near perfect. And here is why: The Whale is a movie about launching a cruise missile. As a screenwriter I can tell you what an amazing process it is. You send your work out to various professionals, get their reviews and modify your work based on all of these criticisms and also positive comments. Sometimes you agree, some times you don't. I at times get these reviews that totally don't get my work and want to gut it and take it in a new direction. The essay about the whale was a marvelous totem and became an explosive reveal that was a dagger to Charlie's soul...and Ellie placed it. Took my breath away. The integration of the storyline to all of the characters...Charlie, Ellie, Liz, Thomas, Mary...was masterful and heartbreaking. The criticism about them continuing to ask him to go to the hospital and him refusing was purposeful! Each and every time he said no he reached closer to the launch button...like a beating drum. The criticism that it "didn't go deep enough" about his condition was also ridiculous and I will explore this more below. Charlie's path was determined years prior. When Mary was discussing with Charlie about the money he was saving for Ellie, that decision was made shortly after the divorce or shortly after the death of his lover. Charlie was collecting that money, every cent he could to save Ellie...to give her a fighting chance at being happy. Charlie knew he wasn't going to make it so he tried to resolve his issues with Ellie before he died. He knew he was going to die. He chose his path...and he never deviated from it. You must understand that he knew he couldn't do both. He couldn't save himself and keep the money for Ellie. His medical bills alone would have consumed those funds in a week. So, why didn't he just save himself and stop binging? This brings us to part two... I have had an amazing career as an internist and a dermatologist. Spent 14 years as an army physician in some of the finest tertiary care hospitals, teaching and taking care of patients. I see 50-60 patients a day in my private practice and we share our lives with them... There is no greater stage on life itself than the exam room of a physician. I see the trauma in patient's lives...I see patients struggle with body dysmorphic syndrome, neurotic excoriations, delusions of parasitosis, lichen simplex chronicus, prurigo nodularis. I share the grief of the death of loved ones. I see patients manifest their responses to stress and trauma in ways most people would not understand. Patient's dying of melanoma still getting a tan. The same goes for obesity...it is incredibly difficult to manage...and it is personal. I can remember taking care of an obese patient in the ICU that had developed intestinal necrosis...all of her small intestines died. Needless to say she couldn't eat anything. She was NPO. I can remember her begging for something to eat. She passed away in a few days....there was nothing we could do... I see it all the time. People determined to go out their way, regardless of the consequences. Charlie manifested his profound grief by binging. He tries to stop. He wants to stop. But he can't. I understand. I see it all the time. This brings us to the very end of the movie, when Ellie reads her essay to him about the whale that she wrote years ago. It was the most compassionate thing she had ever done. She knew it was killing him, but it is what he wanted. She pressed the button that finally launched the cruise missile of Charlie's life. His feet leave the ground. Liftoff into oblivion. I understand... The Whale is a masterpiece.

[@FriendofDorothy]

as a writer you surely know the power of editing

[@richardsnook1874]

I had a similar take. While I loved the performances of Fraser and Chau, the movie as a whole left me exhausted from the overuse of dramatic misery to get a reaction from the audience. One of the best scenes to me was when the delivery driver sees Charlie for the first time. Powerful scene that wasn't overdone. This is an incredibly amazing movie, but I will probably never watch it again.

[@kylev938]

dramatic misery? dude the guy was actively dying within the week the film takes place, your reaction was probably justified..

[@jamesstaggs4160]

Why does anyone listen to people who use the word "fatphobic". Yes, because I think being morbidly obese isn't healthy and not physically appealing that means i have an unreasonable fear of fat people. Sure. I'm the one with the problem.

[@nabilfreeman]

As somebody who will be "recovering" from obesity from my entire life (very healthy now but it's a constant battle), the scenes of binge eating and other "fat" depictions were scarily accurate. I think the film is slightly more complicated because Charlie is fat because he has given up on life, not because he is fighting an addiction (and it's kind of implied he might be terminally ill anyway), but it was really welcome for me to see obesity and its associated problems on screen for the first time ever in a heartfelt way. Personally I really connected with the film and am just saddened that Charlie did not find a way back to life from his grief.

[@JChung407]

I haven't seen it, but based on what I heard and seen I don't want to. Not because I think it will be horrible but because I connected with Charlie for too well than I should have. So much so that the trailer alone has me crying. I'm scared what I'll end up like if I saw it

[@INFPinSA]

I saw it based on the trailer, which I was excited for, but wow was I disappointed. The trailer is wildly misleading.

[@foxdavion6865]

I think this film represents one of the weird rare times when I'd claim the music takes away from the film rather than adds to it; which weirdly enough is the only negative critique I have myself.

[@oreSimic]

What broke me is seeing the whale as an international student, away from my mother who struggles with obesity. It is a serious illness, and I have tried and failed to set the scale right because it hurts her whole body. The movie is painful on so many levels as you see a man chased around by different people without him being able to make a life for himself. It comes to a point where gore and horror of cinema is useless and pure agony is what makes you stop watching. That agony is what makes me so sad about my mother's state, and makes me train every day to escape the painful life that it brings. There are always underlying symptoms, but help is needed on all fronts.

[@9hk38f]

Jesus Christ people! You don't hear us recovering junkies, calling Requiem for a Dream "Junkiephobic". Difference between showing reality, and being oppressive.

[@9hk38f]

I made this comment, before seeing the reference to the same movie. haha.

[@Francis-of8cw]

I lost my mom to addiction. She was deeply hurt by what happened to her and the circumstances in her life. Watched the film yesterday and couldn't sleep afterwards. Too much resemblance, also with the fucked up family situation. If you haven't been through it, you truly don't know how it feels.

[@blackjoker12]

Darren Aronofsky films have always impacted me in some way. This film is no different. It's not one of my tops but the film did what I thought it would. I'm not where near Charlie's weight but boy am I having health problems because of my weight. When it comes to confidence, I have always had that even being overweight. But this movie broke that. I walked out of the theater not depressed but my confidence was shattered. I sat in the car with my wife for a good 15 minutes and I just told her I don't want to end up like Charlie. Knowing that this week is my last week with the ones I love. Due to my lack of discipline or my health problems. Sure, enough since I've seen the movie, I've lost a couple of pounds and started watching my food intake more than I was before and started to just exercise despite my current health problems that make it difficult as it is. The way I've explained this movie to friends and coworkers is that the movie is very grounded to earth unlike many of Aronofsky other more visually appealing films. It also really tackles one week of the characters life at the end of his journey. It reminded me a lot of the ending of requiem of a dream. Where the characters are having to deal with their addiction till the end. Wish some characters were flushed out a bit more. But the setting is a week in a man's life who's been like this for more than 8 years. I also don't see this movie fatphobic since this is the reality of being 600 pounds overweight. I recently had a family friend pass away and he was as big if not bigger than Charlie. He died due to power going out in his house and his breathing AID turning off. Watching Charlie at the end struggle with breathing made me really start to understand what my friend lived with. And what I might if I don't start improving my health. Like I said this movie had an impact on my life like many of Aronofsky's films have had. Very few directors can actually do that to me and that is why Aronofsky is still my favorite director and when he releases something like this. I know Its going to hit home.

[@lizetteread4932]

I went into this movie not knowing what to except. I ugly cried right in the theater, it gave me all the feels. I will say that I felt pretty sad the rest of the day.

[@OuterExperience]

I didn’t like it, I was surprised that a movie called the Whale didn’t trust it’s audience to go deep! The missionary argues with Charlie about basic religion, the daughter argues with Charlie about basic abandonment issues and the nurse argues with Charley about basic self destructive tendencies. None of these arguments felt like they were between real people but rather performances for the audience.

[@hannahhagerty4532]

In a day and age where most movies don't have anything meaningful to say at all, I'm getting really tired of movie reviews that say "this movie says its message TOO MUCH" ...heard similar criticism regarding the menu and don't look up. Some even said it about Triangle of Sadness (my movie of the year) Until society as a whole recognizes the messages of these movies, I think it's trite to say "too heavy handed" when the masses still don't get it. As a whole society is still extremely fatphobic, portraying someone of that size in a sympathetic light is still important. Until society starts to change, I feel these movies still need to be made.

[@drewed1781]

I fear watching this movie because it reminds me of what my dad is going through right now.

[@someoneout-there2165]

Darren A. is my favorite director of all time. His movies are usually uncomfortable but that's because they're so real and raw. I've loved every movie he has done. In my opinion, Requiem For a Dream was his best. Very difficult to watch but it has the most nerve-racking endings ever

[@Umberloid87]

Mother was entirely unwatchable for me, and Noah really got away from him. However The Wrestler and The Fountain are two of my favorite films. I just don’t think most of his work is for me, but if it resonates with others that’s awesome.

[@robertyeah2259]

@@Umberloid87 how do you feel about Requiem for a Dream?

[@Umberloid87]

@@robertyeah2259 honestly I loved it when I was younger, but I haven’t watched it in years. I might have to rewatch it sometime.

[@martin43427]

It was so funny when I saw this at Philly Film fest when 2 seats to my left a man was in absolute tears while to my right, a friend said he hated it. Ironically I fell in the middle of reactions. I did enjoy the film and it’s performances (save for Sadie Sink), but I do believe the screenplay being adapted undercuts Aronofsky’s direction. It’s so confined and emphasizes the staginess of the play that the film feels so sluggish in pummeling the audience with misery porn. The emotions are raw, but not grounded in any established reality these characters are meant to occupy. The characters cry and have explosive monologues and contrived screenplay machinations as if they’re hitting their marks but most of it never feels natural than say The Wrestler or even Requiem For A Dream. Again, I did like this and I certainly am not jumping the Aronofsky ship, I just hope all the creatives and artists use this film to jumpstart future projects that will utilize them effectively. I am happy Fraser is getting a second chance to come back to Hollywood and that this film is why. For that alone, I’m happy this film was made.

[@flightofthebumblebee9529]

Dude stop talking

[@WinedandDined27]

English isn’t your first language, is it?

[@flightofthebumblebee9529]

@@WinedandDined27 fart fetish

[@WinedandDined27]

@@flightofthebumblebee9529 beg your pardon, sir?

[@warriormanmaxx8991]

@martin 43427 - re: "It was so funny ....." 1. Did you indeed laugh at the man in absolute tears ?? 2. Or do you usually start off sentences with, "It was so funny?"

[@KK-pm7ud]

The Whale is going to be one of those films that critics don't really understand for years. I keep seeing and reading reviews that totally miss the point of the film and what's really going on.

[@KevinConwell23]

Agree! Surprised there are so many negative reviews. It seems a lot of critics are looking for an overarching social theme. But for me, the story and its perfectly placed peaks left me short of breath at times. Amazing film.

[@Dwayne4007]

Masterpiece, absolute Masterpiece. Finally someone with balls came along and made an actual film. Darren Aronofsky strikes again with a dark, grab you by the guts, emotional Rollercoaster of a movie. If they're mad about it.... He did something right.