The Whale Is Rough (Review)

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Thank you for watching! :)

[@trinaq]

The actual film seems to be receiving lukewarm reviews, but Brendan's performance is being universally praised. I'm glad that he's making a comeback in style.

[@totaldramarejectisland]

He has been doing Doom Patrol but it seems like ppl forget

[@beckybyt]

Sounds like this year's Spencer

[@thinkbigize]

I think this film will be very similar to The Mummy.

[@Psookpy]

@@totaldramarejectisland yeah that’s more of a voice acting role tho lol

[@Strato_Casterrr9898]

@@Psookpy he's still the one in the robot costume or make-up. One of the things that's compeeling about Robotman is how he moves, his body language.

[@superhornyalien]

If you’ve struggled with binge eating as a coping mechanism it definitely hits differently. This film made me feel things I didn’t expect, even just the way he consumed the candy bars out of spite. The being trapped in the apartment and never leaving helped me feel how hopeless his situation was, especially when you realize he’s on the second floor and there’s just stairs.

[@missimccarthy8408]

Absolutely. 100% agree with you. Could totally see myself in his character when eating the chocolate bars. It definitely hit a note with a note with me, i really enjoyed the movie except for the ending

[@superhornyalien]

@@missimccarthy8408 I liked the ending in its artistic way idk how else it could’ve ended looking back but when I was in the theater I was like 😕😭 looking back it was her essay that kept him living, or gave him the will to keep going and I thought that was beautiful.

[@xxanimallover43verxx21]

This hit home on many levels. Past eating disorder, divorced with kids, low self esteem on the inside but trying to be happy on the outside.....I've done all that.....

[@jdsolis8702]

Agree on everything especially the binge eating part. It actually felt “too real”.

[@frederickdrenning850]

Ha! You just destroyed this vloger's review with a much better one. Nice job!

[@spenkz8165]

I think that the dull parts of the movie were deliberate and necessary to the impact of the end. The movie revolves around Sadie's character's essay on Moby Dick which is used to symbolize Charlie as ahab and the whale as the embodiment of his inner demons. The whole thesis of the essay is that the boring parts of the book (where they focused on the whale) were the saddest parts because as a reader she knew that the author was just distracting us from the plot and the captain's eventual death battling the whale. After hearing that, in the theatre, I found myself even more aware of the minutia in the simple scenes because I couldn't stop thinking about that line, and in said scenes, Aronofsky was just trying to distract from charlie's inevitable death. That was just my take on it though.

[@shannonc.4927]

👏❤️‍🔥

[@lilvegan2002]

Doesnt everyone do the same tho?

[@kenofdz]

Damn. I wish i had your analytical thinking for films, didn’t catch that while watching the film. Thanks for the great retrospective

[@Wilbrown89]

Just watched the film tonight and came away with the same thoughts. I personally thought the film was great. Fraser definitely carries it, but that's why it took so long to make. It needed an actor that could do so.

[@indievidual5788]

I came out of the movie with the same view, it truly does make the ending so much more impactful

[@durzoblint415]

Absolutely loved this film. Had me tearing up and felt like I was watching Charlie the character rather than Brendan Fraser the actor.

[@brettlinthicum6649]

cry baby

[@niftyd123]

@@brettlinthicum6649 ???

[@Numbabu]

@@brettlinthicum6649you know I always do

[@gabrielnogueira3190]

How does it end?

[@anonymouslyunknown4811]

It was heartbreaking

[@erroldtumaque3430]

Hong Chau's performance should be talked about in tandem with Brendan's cause their relationship feels more center point than the daughters tbh. She really did feel real like you said while the others felt more exaggerated.

[@narthic]

Brendan in an interview put into words how I feel about Hong Chau and could never voice it properly. It was that she says more in the moments of silence than in moments of spoken dialog and IMO she does. She has this ability with the physical language of her expressions and body language to speak depths during none speaking scenes.

[@angrym0nkeysh0w]

I think she should win Supporting Actress. I've seen all nominated performances and I think hers is the best one. I would really love if Angela Bassett won too, but I think Hong Chau deserves it a little more

[@alexanderzhukov3773]

She is great in the menu as well

[@KingHayabusa384]

They both should recieve an Oscar for their perfomances.

[@dwaynekeenum1916]

@@angrym0nkeysh0wcondon hsu

[@Advent3546]

Even if I wind up hating The Whale I'm just too happy to have Brendan Fraser back on screen

[@osmanyousif7849]

I hope he gets to do one more outing for a Mummy sequel (a DIRECT ONE to the first, 2nd is a maybe) where the series can be given proper closure.

[@NecroMorrius]

@@osmanyousif7849 he’s a lead in the new Scorsese movie, he doesn’t need to do another mummy movie lol

[@KmiiVC]

where was he ?

[@Swampdonkey796]

@@NecroMorrius he already said he would be interested in doing another mummy movie lol

[@kazmiller7195]

He's been on the screen for a while now

[@RSG_TheMonster]

Even if this film is bad, you have got to admit that seeing Brendan Fraser back on screen is amazing!!!

[@travisb1o0m19]

Why does everyone like him so much? Is there a reason

[@ethanparker5878]

@@travisb1o0m19 he left Hollywood because they mistreated him horribly. And he’s coke back and supposedly he’s given a good performance in this film.

[@RevJ7]

The film isn't bad. No one is saying that.

[@trinaq]

Preach, it's great to have Brendan back on our screens, I hope that he's nominated for an Oscar, at least.

[@turnmeondeadman4221]

What’s amazing about that ? He’s got one movie , the mummy. What’s so special about him ?

[@Fatal_Envy]

I do agree that the cast (Brendan Fraser especially) carry this film. Regardless, I still loved it and it's probably my fav film of the year. A lot of the themes do hit quite close to me (the ending legit had me in tears), so there is that bias. There were some issues I had mostly down to the script, genuinely feel that's the weaker part of the film. Sidenote, goddamn does Hong Chau need more credit. I saw her in this and The Menu and it's terrifying how drastic the contrast is.

[@calebtheowl1516]

If this is your favorite movie of the year then you haven’t seen many movies

[@dimplegargtgtsc.sambarocha344]

@@calebtheowl1516 The emotions are just strong for a lot of people

[@brendanfitzpatrick670]

Omg I had no idea it was the same actress from The Menu. She was fantastic in that

[@jonesjermaine4387]

As a cis Chinese man and fan of his videos When is he going to talk about the round eyes stealing our Secret Fried Recipe that dates back to the Ding Dong Dynasty?

[@toooydoeur]

@@calebtheowl1516 jfc you people need to grow up

[@TheDudeAmazing]

Why do people feel that an Oscar is "necessary" to solidify an actors performance? I never understood the attention brought on by this award as the whole idea feels dumb in a way because it's almost like we need their validation for every filmmaking category when it usually ends up being a case of everyone not agreeing with who "deserves it." All I'm saying is that Fraser doesn't NEED this award as much as the award needs him. The Oscars don't matter in the grand scheme of things because like I said, most people disagree with the winners anyway which makes the whole award feel meaningless.

[@DerMoerpler]

From an artistic standpoint you're correct, but in the industry that award still has weight. Otherwise there would be no such thing as campaigns or Oscar season. It's a career boost for most winners in the sense that they're considered for other or new kinds of roles. Brendan Fraser has been out of the spotlight for a while and an Oscar could solidify his resurgence and propel his career to former heights. Look what it did for Keaton and McConaughey.

[@TheDudeAmazing]

@@DerMoerpler Well if it’s meant to be seen as an artistic achievement, the simply campaigning for an award makes it feel more meaningless. Almost like a “whoever campaigns the best wins” type of deal which makes it matter less. Also Brendan is a bad example since he’s a well known actor already with future projects already lined up for him BEFORE The Whale was even released and BEFORE any nominations became public. He’s gonna be in the next Scorsese film and that’s been known for a while now 😂. He was the star of The Mummy for crying out loud! He’s been a superstar haha! And this whole “resurgence” feels more like a marketing ploy because it’s not like he wasn’t acting in anything these past few years. He was in one of Soderbergh’s most recent films that came out last year, BEFORE The Whale. I can see this mentality meaning more for foreign films like Drive My Car or Worst Person In the World. Doesn’t mean anyone will watch them per say but it’s good exposure for those types of films. But Oscars are becoming more and more irrelevant with lower viewership and the pandering to audiences about how they are supposed to think regarding American politics. Coming from a place that feels hand fisted into your mouth is less genuine. That’s a whole other thing but it makes the Oscar’s matter less, especially in this day and age and not like before.

[@fruitipatooti_]

Yes!! completely agree.

[@TheDudeAmazing]

@@DerMoerpler Categories like “best score” and “costume design” are ones I see benefiting more than best actor or best picture (did anyone remember that CODA won best picture last year?) but what sucks about the Oscars is that they don’t televise every single award especially for those who will benefit the most. It takes away too much time from Jimmy Kimmel making his repetitive Trump remarks I guess 🤷‍♂️.

[@snooziblu]

It’s kinda ingrained in the culture too at this point I think

[@stewyyishim]

love how you had to slow down all the whale clips to 0.25x speed so we could actually have something to look at

[@LadyFinger_]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/pIjMgqKanbKpsJY Luckily a new trailer just released!

[@ladeedledee]

@@marialogan3296 In case anyone sees this, that's not even a KZbin link.

[@Sport87ywhvifcc11]

@@ladeedledee It is a youtube link. not one thats worth clicking on, but a youtube link nonetheless

[@PuppetsByPalmieri]

I loved the film honestly. It’s so deeply human and honest and raw, and Fraser’s performance is one for the ages.

[@braidena1633]

Trailer makes it look really depressing, which I like. Leaves you with something to think about for awhile and helps one become a better person

[@PuppetsByPalmieri]

@@braidena1633 that was my exact feeling after seeing it. Been turning it over in my head ever since. That’s the sign of a good film to me.

[@Stteevo]

totally agree, i enjoyed the performances from the entire cast personally. in which i decided im going for a second watch this week to see if i can catch a few more subtle details that i may have missed the first time.

[@Sillystring365]

It literally broke me. Me and my bf could not stop analyzing it on the car ride home and just talking about how good it was. It hit really deep to me because Charlie’s life is my worst fear for my obese parents. The visuals and the writing broke me

[@bennettburris3446]

Yes j thought it was just human, hit so many aspects of touchy humanity

[@user-nv2wt4hi8t]

No question you can tell poor Brendan is channelling 15 years of chronic pain and blacklisting by the parasitic predators in Hollywood and it shows. Wonderful actor, so pleased he's back and making the rounds.

[@ldallas8315]

Seems like the general consensus about this film is that Brendan Fraiser and his co stars give absolutely incredible, devastating performances that elevate a rather flawed screenplay. I think it says a lot about Brendan that regardless of whatever the overall quality of the film can be quantified as, people are beyond excited to see him get the chance to pour his entire soul into an acting role. I know I am

[@TheDillon8825]

I've seen it twice. I disagree, I felt like the movie did a nice balance between the empathy and the "disgusting" bits. Yes, sometimes one can feel like the movie is treating Charlie kind of poorly, but I appreciated that because it makes us feel how he feels. He sees someone and thinks "they're probably disgusted by me". The essay was just perfection, and the ending made me cry like I hadn't cried in a long time. I loved it.

[@esthercho5578]

Finally someone giving Hong Chau the deserved credit

[@paulathistleton1339]

I think she was amazing.

[@Ryan-jr4nl]

Why? She was basically just acting angry all the time.

[@ethankleinman1067]

​@@Ryan-jr4nllol if you actually watched the film you know that she wasn't. That was more Sadie Sinks character and she was supposed to act all angry and upset all the time in the film.

[@Ardyrezv]

@@ethankleinman1067 yeah I got that her character was suppose to be the resentful teenager from the beginning. She did a great job in her last scene.

[@AlkisenSuper]

@@Ryan-jr4nl What are you talking about? Mostly she was quietly concerned, her moments of anger come in short spurts. Sadie Sink's character is the one who was nearly always uset.

[@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.

[@bens3767]

i think you mean co-dependency,

[@somedudeintheinterweb8665]

Well that's why we have tragedies, it's just another type of ending

[@brainzistasty4857]

I think people just don't understand the movie. That was one of the hardest movies for me to watch because of the problems Charlee faced. I nearly had to walk out of the theatre when I watched the premier back at the end of October. This was certainly NOT surface level. The depth of Charlie's pain is so deep in is indescribable that it is insane they were able to put that on film.

[@ryanblanchard2508]

I agree. The empathy I felt for Charlie culminated with the ending which was heart wrenching. It was very emotional and everyone in the theater was crying or upset by what transpired. Charlie’s character was so sad and depressed, and the last 20 minutes were tough to watch. I can’t recall ever being so moved by a film honestly.

[@toooydoeur]

​@@c.j.giordano2129 bro knew exactly what he was talking about and was spitting

[@toooydoeur]

@@c.j.giordano2129 any sane person who would read the bible, would also understand its a work of fiction

[@toooydoeur]

@@c.j.giordano2129 🤣 well ofc its has universal themes but it's still a work if fiction people act like is totally real

[@toooydoeur]

@@c.j.giordano2129 average bible thumper

[@Lokesh_Chand]

Mother! For me was thousand emotions, a sort of revelation, an empathy of the highest kind .Never understood the hate. Darren Aronofsky really got me.

[@absv444]

Mother! Changed me forever. I remember walking out of that theatre and just being in a mind fuck. I went back to it about a few months ago and looked at the reviews and couldn’t understand. Yeah, it was extremely disturbing and I’m not a huge film person, But I thought that’s what movies were supposed to do. It was extremely jarring and leaves me thinking about it years later even when I can’t re watch

[@Digger-Nick]

It's hated because it's simply an awful and boring movie...

[@editnosmirc4489]

@@Digger-Nick that's your opinion. I enjoyed it the entire time myself

[@Digger-Nick]

@@editnosmirc4489 Your opinion on the movie doesn't change the objective facts of the movie. Enjoying the taste of shit doesn't mean it's still not shit... There's a reason why the audience rating is so poor compared to other metaphorical movies like Babadook or His House. It was simply terrible.

[@editnosmirc4489]

@@Digger-Nick what are the objective facts?

[@PeterFnPorker]

I mean if "requiem for a dream" didn't leave you empty idk what to tell you.. that movie is brutal

[@BackwoodsFilms]

That movie will leave you feeling messed up for days after watching it

[@daikiraihatesu]

It gave me an electric shock…

[@vespers119]

It's a little over the top.

[@Thaligamathor]

@@vespers119 that's the point 👉 🤔

[@justaguyonyoutube4592]

That movie really did made me feel empty, I’ll tell you what.

[@heroawesome8495]

I feel like this is a movie where you have to relate to those in the story to really get it. This is a story about broken people who let their problems in life dictate their futures, instead of healing and moving past them. I actually quite enjoyed that this movie kept it surface level. It was like being a character in the story, as a viewer. I enjoyed trying to look further into the story and theorize theming and meaning behind it. I totally get that's not for everyone though. This is a movie about the reality of binge eating disorder, but also about why healing is so important. Every person has denied themselves healing in some way. Charlie turned to an eating disorder after the death of his partner. His ex wife turned to alcoholism after her marriage ended. Liz enables Charlie because he is the only person she has left, getting in the way of Charlie's personal relationships against his wishes, and enabling his food addiction. Ellie has become a hateful person because of her parental issues. Even the missionary denies himself healing by putting him back in the same situation that caused his grief to begin with, hoping that things will be different this time. It's an incredibly heart wrenching story when you can relate to being at such an awful rock bottom like that. Anyways, I don't even remember what I was going to comment here. I really just wanted to share my thoughts on the movie lol.

[@buttmonkey2656]

It really is disappointing to know that Hong Chau got left out of the awards conversation. She really is the best thing about the movie aside from Fraser. She owns every moment she’s on the screen

[@RB-.-]

she got nominated for an oscar for this role

[@buttmonkey2656]

@@RB-.- well that’s a major blunder on my part. It feels like she’s been overshadowed by the other nominees, or maybe that’s because I just watched this film recently. Either way - she’s now the front runner in my eyes

[@moonluvrrr3091]

I’m not gonna lie, I loved it. It was uncomfortable because it needed to be to convey the point. The actors were amazing, the story was realistic, and it was heartbreaking.

[@GanondorfsWife]

@@c.j.giordano2129 I agree. I'm a christian myself, buuut even so I still sobbed my eyes out at the end. I loved it, even if I disagreed with the views they had.

[@user-mt6hr4qf9n]

@@c.j.giordano2129 I don't object to criticism of religious belief but you're right that the critique is shallow and lightweight. And then, it leans into an ending steeped in Christian imagery. The emotions at the end are all manufactured, take away the soaring strings and tears ands there's nothing authentic left. There's a reason that Aaronovsky appeals to angsty teenagers, because he is one himself (not literally on the teenaged part). The film just felt juvenile to me.

[@ueswhy3662]

@@c.j.giordano2129that was the point also he’s gay so like is he susposed to like the bible??

[@Ardyrezv]

@@user-mt6hr4qf9n isn’t the director Christian? He directed Noah and Mother which had many Bible references?

[@hojosconsal9913]

@@c.j.giordano2129 i think ignoring the systematic issues that religion imposes on people and society is bland and problematic. Specially because abrahamic religions almost inherently benefit the authority of men, a certain way of life not suited for everyone and thus leaves women and minorities in a weird position just to name one issue. I would even say that is is more important now considering the rise of right wing (and religious driven even if they don't want to admit it) in the us and other countries against basic rights

[@Gnator8t4]

As soon as the video started I realized I haven't seen any actual footage of The Whale yet, and of COURSE it's in 4:3!

[@lorcan545]

I used to think it was an affectation too, because it only seemed to go back as far as Fish Tank and only really ramped up after Grand Budapest Hotel, but I’ve seen it so often in the past year that I can’t see it anymore as an attempt to stand out, rather it’s just a neutral choice, it’s fine, is what I think now.

[@DonAntonio6]

Idk how most felt towards the film but for me the film spoke to me deeply. My father was an addict and hong chau's line about not feeling like you can save anyone is such a real feeling when helping someone through an addiction. The helpless feeling while they deteriorate, constant apologising, and the love they share to you despite how you act towards their self destruction. Seeing the characters around Charlie helpless around his self destruction and the many ways those around tried and failed to help was very haunting to me. Brought me back to seeing my father

[@kerokerostvincento9263]

Based on the video title I hope this is a Moby Dick analysis. Don't wanna fail my lit essay

[@guit4rguy]

Based name and pfp

[@kubaduce]

Am original comment on KZbin? No way.

[@jeremisavard4146]

I would really like for Fraser to win the Oscar for best actor, even if Hollywood doesn't deserve this treasure of a man.

[@ACD1994]

He will.

[@jeremisavard4146]

@@ACD1994 He did.

[@jademoon7938]

If you want to watch Brendan Fraser do a dramatic role in a killer movie, I recommend Journey to the End of the Night. It's an early 00s film. He's the son of Scott Glenn, an American brothel owner in São Paolo. Mos Def, Alice Braga, great cast. I've literally never met anyone who's seen this movie. I used to be neighbors with a pilot who would bring back huge stacks of DVDs from China, the thin paper boxed ones, bootleg. This movie was among them. Never forgotten it. I had never seen Brendan Fraser in a role like that. It's a bunch of people in various forms of trouble trying to get their hands on the same stolen money to take off, and you follow the money through their lives as they try to survive and gtfo with the money. Highly recommend.

[@trundenthebad]

Bro I legit thought you were going to say Journey to the center of the earth😂

[@brankobelfranin8815]

Thanks for the tip

[@jspella1477]

Thanks @ Jade Moon. I will look for that movie!

[@idab6864]

@@trundenthebad lmfao same

[@Justkimchii0111]

I’m noticing a trend of recent movies where the actors/cast carry the movie but the movies themselves are subpar or ok at best. It’s such a shame because there are currently so many talented actors but they’re being underutilized or essentially forced to carry the film. I’m not sure why this happens or if it’s just me getting older, but I hope screenwriters/producers/directors up their game and this doesn’t become the normal for films. Regardless I’m so happy for Brenda Fraser! He deserves the world ❤️

[@vgrepairs]

dude darren aronofsky has more talent in his pinky finger than brendan frasier... youre basically giving harrison ford credit for star wars over george lucas lol

[@davidshead1323]

I think it's very effective personally and we reveal more about all of the characters throughout the film and as we do it makes us both understand and empathise with them more as well as make us question what their actions might be, increasing the tension in the film to very high levels. It starts with them all being characters we'd normally judge or find distasteful in a film. An overweight guy who can't do anything for himself and gives into his addiction that puts him there, thereby furthering his need for them. The angry teenage girl who hurts others but through being given attention from what she's actually good at, actually helps someone. I think it's a really beautiful story about how important kindness is and how we can teach it to others, as well as how some illnesses or disorders can stunt that and demand kindness from others for us to survive but the beautiful thing about the Whale, is that Charlie still has a very kind heart despite being such a burden and people can see that. I don't really understand your issue with the style of it and for filming in service of performance rather than to always be clearly evocative, it's definitely a choice and one that I think works to either connect us more with the characters or distance us from them depending on what the film wants to do (the post guy who we don't see and just hear the rain outside) and how they exist and move and take action in the space.

[@PotatopancakesOMG]

I feel like this movie was made to show the brutal reality of living with addiction mixed with ptsd and depression and in that it did a beautiful job

[@lilmagic.tv2336]

The movie is very emotional and is definitely one of Brendan Fraser's top performances in such a long time. I personally absolutely loved the film, seeing Fraser back on the big screen was phenomenal to watch. He deserves all the praise he's getting for this role

[@NicolePoliskey]

I have yet to see this film but I am emotional just anticipating the performances. Brendan has always seemed liked such a genuine person. Just seeing him back, with such a loved performance, has touched my heart. The first time I saw the clip of his standing ovation I was brought to tears.

[@flawedsanity]

To anyone who hasn't seen Doom Patrol - please check it out! Even if you don't like DC, just do it for Brendan Fraser's amazing performance. Most of it is simply voiceover work, but he manages to convey so much.

[@badgercdlyons]

Season 3 Episode 7. All that needs to be said.

[@badgercdlyons]

"But remember, the point of this course is to learn how to write clearly and persuasively. Think about that. Think about the truth of your argument." Sounds like that line sums up Aronofsky's directorial vision well. Without losing the truth of Charlie in a more expansive film, you walk away remembering him.

[@nickkasander2316]

Hong Chau was breathtaking in the film!!! “i don’t believe anyone can save anyone”

[@miguelalvarez5292]

Movie was pretty good. It was rough to watch him juggle a sense of depression constantly by eating his life away and trying to stay positive despite his past and circumstances. In some scenes, it was kinda hard to tell what he was doing or looking at because of the camera and lens they used but it was still good and understandable. I'm also still trying to understand the ending on a deeper level. It did feel rightfully empty but there was just more to it I think. Also, the score was really nice.

[@jamesm2078]

The Whale is one of the most depressing stories I’ve ever seen and was hard to stomach, but is a massive comeback for Brendan Fraser.

[@therav2007]

Totally get your perspective, but as someone going through a similar life experience this movie hit hard and was really brilliant in the connection of spirituality, reconciliation, authenticity and death

[@chadquigley227]

I can't believe I didn't see it coming that the essay was the daughter's. I thought it was gonna be Alan's, and that it was when Charlie read that essay as Alan's teacher that he fell in love with him .

[@Jess-Rabbit]

I actually guessed it from the first time he recited it to himself and that was even with trying to not even read the plot synopsis. I accidentally read part of it and saw something about his daughter so I assumed that it was her writings. It didn't take away from the effect of the ending tho

[@pandakso3365]

The whole film is actually just that one shot from the poster

[@UmbraIzas]

I think Fraser's performance feels so authentic because of the state of career. His return to Hollywood and his fans backed him when the industry abandoned him. Being able to channel that empathy and love from around him and using it to exemplify the point of kindness in this movie.

[@Danxethenightaway]

Idk why critics are offended at this movie? It is a movie that accurately and tragically portrays the struggles of being obese. Amazing performance by Brendan frasier. I’m pretty sure he will be the winner of this years best acting role

[@kylespevak6781]

Because the fat pride movement

[@Danxethenightaway]

@@kylespevak6781 I don’t think this movie glorifies obesity at all. On the contrary, it portrays the pain of obesity

[@kylespevak6781]

@@Danxethenightaway "Why are critics offended? It accurately and tragically portrays the struggles of being obese" "The fat pride movement"

[@Danxethenightaway]

@@kylespevak6781 how is depicting suffering and self sabotage fat pride? Sounds like you’re just disgusted. If so , just say it. NOTHING about this movie was praising “fat pride” If anything, it depicts the inner sorrow of what being obese is. You’re starting to sound like a Qanon freak.👎🏾 Fuvk out my mentions.

[@kylespevak6781]

@@Danxethenightaway You asked why it's getting bad ratings. Critics want to push fat pride. You said the movie accurately portrays obesity as bad. You have your answer

[@ryanandrews2977]

The film is outstanding. Last night I sat in a cinema with everyone surrounding me in tears. It seemed too emotionally resonate with everyone. If you lost someone, struggled with addiction, have kids, have innate friendships or felt alonet. Im pretty sure this film will touch you. The hype is real.

[@kyleimcdermott]

I didn't think the movie was trying to make me think he was disgusting, and then turn me toward empathy. More to it than that. It qualifies as a good film. Might not be VERY good or great, but it definitely falls into the "good" category. And yes, Hong Chau deserves all the praise this year for making me laugh in The Menu and making me cry in The Whale.

[@alphaclam]

Wrong. The movie isn't really about being fat at all or having empathy for fat people. It is about self destruction, guilt and shame, love, addiction, etc. The obesity element simply operates as a visual reflection of how the character sees himself. Compared to alcoholism and drug addiction, which are also represented in the movie, it is a fresh approach to dramatize these topics, not a commentary on overeating. It is not a coincidence that every single character also has a vice and is destroying their lives in some way--and like the students in the online class, it begs the question as to how the audience is also not being honest with themselves. that's what it's about.

[@Destinyirus278]

Dude requiem for a dream f-d me up as a kid. I like watched it when I wasn’t allowed to. & dude I still remember some of those scenes to be fair I was terrified of drugs after that so i was definitely scared straight. Worked better than the DARE program 😂

[@BrownSugarr]

I really liked it. It could be slow at times but overall rlly beautiful

[@professionalidiot07]

I don’t care if it’s bad Brendan Fraser is back and I couldn’t be happier

[@RevJ7]

It's not bad?

[@ITS_JAYJAY_2006]

Didn’t expect to see you here

[@vgrepairs]

its great. get around to watching it.

[@alexales5380]

are you saying it’s bad because it’s treating obesity as an unhealthy state, which it is? Why is it bad?

[@professionalidiot07]

@@alexales5380 what? when did I say it's bad? what does obesity have to do with what I said?

[@drama2queen4]

The Whale frustrated me and makes me more frustrated the more I think on it. And this is coming from someone who has been staunchly in Brendan’s corner for years. I was able to see it at closing night of a local film fest in Indy, and it was my most anticipated movie. But understand that in just a week’s time, I saw Close, Broker, Women Talking, Banshees, enjoying all of them and loving the next movie more than the last. So I had high hopes for The Whale, and man. It really didn’t help that my last impression of it was that really goofy final matchcut shot that made me want to laugh; it was such an odd choice. I really think its flaws all land in the script. The dialogue was so circular and repetitive. Like I get it, you’re not going to the hospital, Charlie! The themes feel messy. Sadie did the best she could do with the way her character was written, but her performance didn’t blow me out of the water. Brendan and Hong are of course great, but having seen enough of Brendan’s other work, he felt just as strong in this as he does in something like Trust or even Doom Patrol. I’ve seen some praise for Samantha Morton, but I actually thought that her performance felt out of place in the one scene she’s in. Or at least the more yell-y part of that performance. I don’t know. I’ve been dreading the discourse about this movie since casting was announced way back in early 2021. It was always going to be divisive.

[@huss1836]

Thank you for your review. Care to share your letterboxd profile? I like to follow people that can tell it like it is and doesnt ride the hype train.

[@Xenonic2]

I mean it’s very closely adapted from the original play, both written by Hunter. I do get that things go in circles but it’s far from messy. There are setups and payoffs. I do agree that Brendan and Hong carried the film, my god. The dude who played the fake Christian wasn’t matching Fraser’s energy on screen and that made me frustrated. A lot of the drama is, honestly, best seen on stage. It’s a play that allows for ambiguity and theatrics. One production of the play, I’ve heard, only allows Charlie to get up twice the entire play. Making his last moment more satisfying. Felt like he moved too much myself, and for a guy who’s 600 pounds, he’s pretty mobile.

[@ccaattss]

May I ask what you thought of CLOSE?

[@dadeee7776]

Haven’t seen it but this is exactly how I thought it would go when the main point is on a bigger guy they usually focus on that and forget to create the rest of the movie so I’m not surprised they would make that same mistake hoping people wouldn’t be able to see past it, they are depending on people just feeling sorry for such a character and rating it off of that alone

[@Johnsmith-rk9kt]

Terrible review.

[@kristinsaur]

Almost got up and left during a screening last weekend a handful of times. Cried a lot. Felt gross a lot. Didn't leave. Fraser knocked it out of the park. Big sigh.

[@ResilientWon]

I wish my mom could see this. She is homebound and has gained a lot of weight. I think this would be cathartic for her.

[@mre8340]

Great review. Optimistic, realistic, analytical, hopeful. All perfectly stated. Karsten looks a little like SBF, thankfully his voice is a million times better.

[@thehumancondition5764]

This was the first time ive cried in a cinema, one of the few times ive cried in the last 3 or 4 years. I loved it

[@shanevanmatre3603]

Kinda funny that a longer trailer with more footage came out shortly after Karsten edited and released this video with only the teaser trailer footage being available to use.

[@jjayala]

I mean. Nothing will compare to his beyond amazing performance in George of the Jungle. But it looks like he nailed this one too.

[@bddybdz]

😁

[@tchalla7401]

This movie was fucking amazing, the most humanity type acting I’ve ever seen in a movie. It’s so fucking tear jerking.

[@idab6864]

Watch Paddleton. It definitely hits harder than this movie in that way

[@m-free6121]

@@idab6864god that’s such a good movie

[@idab6864]

@@m-free6121 it had my full attention and broke my heart wide open

[@abudhabi5546]

Is it better than ghost

[@TroyLad]

Jerking like Charlie at the start

[@jacksonx7251]

The scene that got me the most was the one where he binged. The shame leading to coping the only way you know how followed by the shame of what you've done rinse and repeat until you can't eat another bite and all you can do is wallow. Been there man, fucking sucks.

[@morningowl43]

As a recovering binge eater of 16 years (not as bad as Charlie) that scene felt too real, the shame of someone seeing you for your size other than who you are, the embarrassment of eating all that food, the glazed over look while scarfing your face down in total shame wishing god could just take you away right then and there, the self purging, the misery of being addicted to food, something that should be seen as comfort, something that should be seen as nourishment and only using it for true self harm, I’m glad I didn’t see it in the theatres because I was screaming sobbing and needed to cuddle with my cat afterwards. It hit way to hard for me and helped me understand my own disorder and helped me understand that this could’ve been a path for me if I didn’t do something about it. Fraser’s performance from that scene alone is chilling.

[@purplealchemistofficial]

This movie shows the unpleasant side of loss and what it can do to a person. Each character deals with loss in their own way and I think it's sadly relatable.

[@professormadhattgaming583]

I’m probably never gonna watch this movie but it makes me so freaking happy to have Brendan Fraser back on the screen.

[@blondieblu8819]

I’m so happy to see Brenden back on screen. Even if the movie doesn’t live up to my expectations, I’m so happy he’s back.

[@coryy9745]

The Whale is definitely worth seeing. It had me tearing up and in utter shock. Don't let any controversy stop you from seeing it.

[@TheArsenalMan125]

i really didnt understand the bird plate breaking wish someone would explain

[@MedeirosXS]

​@@TheArsenalMan125 It's implied that Ellie broke the plate because she was angry that Charlie was taking care of a bird, but not taking care of her.

[@samrotolo2006]

Karsten, could you please talk about Buffalo 66. I’ve just recently watched it for the first time and struck a very meaningful chord with me. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the film.

[@captainducker175]

I feel like where he reads his daughters essay or has someone read it for him is sort of him wanting to kill something that is apart of him that is ruining his life but he doesn't actually want to die, at the end when he starts walking towards his daughter which he failed to do so, he "conquered" the whale but just like Ahab where he was desperate to conquer it, it killed him I still find it impressive how impactful it was with just 6 characters and all in one place Also all of it being filmed in the apartment makes me feel in a way that it's about Charlie, that's all his life is, his apartment but everyone else has lives outside of that which is brought into his apartment or his life. Also when the plate breaks in the window is when it's too late for him, when before the plate broke he could've gotten help, and everytime his health came up the crow/raven would appear Maybe I'm giving the movie too much credit, but that's what I found impactful about it

[@ryanjosephdp]

It really got me personally. I was tearing up constantly and the end got me literally wiping away tears. Not exactly sure why... as I hear so many good points for why this movie isn't working for so many people. But it really got me.

[@interdimensionalsteve8172]

f*cking adore Darren Aronofsky, with Requiem being one of the greatest movies of all time. Nothing he's done is easy to watch (except maybe Noah, ugh), and I'm looking forward to this.

[@no-cz7js]

I haven’t seen it yet, I really want to, and I think it will win. It seems like a very.. human thing. It’s realistic, it’s upsetting, it’s transparent. I feel like if a film can make you feel disturbed, or unsettled, it did a good job.

[@SearchingforScraps]

It was very powerful. When I saw it in the theaters and when it ended, everyone didn't move for a solid 2 minutes. I saw people getting up and hugging eachother.

[@bradwilliams3278]

Trauma porn

[@mhalbe1984]

In fairness to the movie, the hype was always around frasers performance, not the film. It seems like the hype was correct, fraser gave a heart wrenching performance. The movie itself, i didn't see any hype as "best film of the year" prior to its release.

[@timothyslaughter476]

The woman who plays Charlie's friend / nurse is worth the price of admission alone. Outstanding performance. Frazier was certainly excellent as well. This is a character study film. All scenes are in his apartment so its pure acting. This kind of film is hardly ever made these days. I enjoyed it my wife hated it. There ya go.

[@wizardswine]

Having watched it just today I really agree they could have gone deeper, one thing I don't think they address is just how... odd it is to see a parental figure devoid of dignity. I also do feel like the reasons behind his eating disorder weren't fully explored in depth.

[@smegmatic308]

You're supposed to just accept that his dead boyfriend is reason enough.

[@forrest.0569]

Yeah well the fact this film actually successfully got made is an achievement within itself

[@nickkasander2316]

i looked at the direction as Darren stepping away, and letting the script and performances do the work instead of him putting a significant “style” on the film

[@deltavagen9796]

sadie sink is so beautiful omg. this movie will emotionally destroy me, i know it. hopefully it will be a huge success.

[@timschmidt6741]

brendan fraser made my childhood with the mummy movies, I'm so glad that he was able to restart his carreer

[@Mogswamp]

I can't trust any reviews of this movie after everyone hated Mother. Mother is like one of my top 5 best films of all time.

[@yupkyle]

holy shit two uploads within a week 🤯

[@grimngruesome8988]

This film was amazing. Its deliberate slow pacing wasn't for everyone but that's intentional. It's not a movie for everyone. Alfred Hitchcock's "Rope", and "Rear Window" are great examples of slow burn movies that a lot of people find boring. The two movies I mentioned, and "The Whale" have something in common. That is that they were shot in one location. That is something that amazes me, when the very limited scenery is utilized to its fullest. The environment, the sounds, everything comes together perfectly when done right. It worked so well, the most we saw outside of Charlie's place was a parking lot! Doesn't that amaze you? It captures the isolation of Charlie's self loathing life, and we're there with him. We feel it too.

[@juzekost]

I enjoyed the review and appreciated your nuanced take on the script as compared to the actors' performance. I haven't seen the film yet, but my partner struggles with weight and had a similar scenario play out with her father. The trailer was really hard on her and brought a couple of things she's been discussing with her counselor to a real point. I think it'll hit home with the people it needs to hit home with, and to everyone else, it'll be a weak story point because it is. I can't connect with obese characters because I'm thin as a rail, and I don't understand the food obsession so to me it was more about the father connecting with his daughter, she focused entirely on his weight and how the couch looked with him on it and how he had his camera off in the class scene of the trailer. I think it was layers of pain and realization as more and more of the scene resonated with her, not just the performance. I'm equal parts excited and terrified to experience the film as a couple because this could be the first big step in her journey, or this will completely destroy her. Thanks for making the video ❤️

[@Lordoftheapes79]

Brendan is like my 5th cousin removed twice or something like that. Close enough that it can be tracked, but we'll never meet. In this he looks so much like my grandfather, albeit younger and heavier, it's uncanny. I also have a redheaded aunt who only started to make amends shortly before his death after years of not speaking. Yeah. This one hits close to home.

[@sg137iu]

Brendan's been deserving of a big win for a long time

[@aandwdabest]

Given what I’ve seen so far I can confidently say Justice for Brandon Fraser. Glad to hear that he is getting the love he deserves.

[@McDichaelSteve]

When I was in College we adapted the Play and it is an incredibly emotional story. If the movie can capture even a modicum of that energy, then it did its job.

[@JoePlaya87]

I think he died when Ellie opened the door. Her demeanor completely changed which seemed like he hallucinated that final event when he was passing away.

[@ericshin6338]

I feel like the movie is Ellie's essay. It's messy and has some dull moments. But holy shit it carries such an emotional and honest expression of the writer's feelings. It's messy film that really resonated with me!

[@jayolovitt5969]

Brendan looks good accepting this award. I think it’s valid to humanise the experience of someone living as an obese person. This is a situation, like addiction or homelessness that affects real people who have lived a range of life experiences that got them to this place in their life. I think it’s about time we explored obesity in a way that doesn’t make the person a joke or stereotype.

[@smegmatic308]

This basically My 600 lb Life: The Movie (artsy edition)

[@callie8007]

This movie only plays off of stereotypes...there are many better depictions of obesity out there. Made by actual fat people.

[@thinkbigize]

Great review, keep up the good work.

[@ang3l002]

I started crying about halfway through and didn’t stop until I was in the car going home from the theatre. I have never been in a theatre when the credits were rolling I could hear everyone sniffling and crying. It was human and it was amazing

[@aldomartinez7104]

I had the pleasure of seeing this at a film festival earlier this year. Even though I went in expecting to dislike it (the director is hit or miss for me) I found myself thoroughly enjoying the film. I'd for sure recommend to give it a watch. Brendan Fraser is fantastic, as are all the other actors, except for Sadie, she was serviceable but not a standout.

[@willemdaho3]

this was a sad but fun watch. all of the characters are tragic in their own ways, and the pacing was quick. i wasn’t expecting it to end so abruptly tho

[@pocky8501]

I got an add with that exact same photo as soon as you showed it... 0:20

[@babyyodachelsea7034]

I agree with almost everything you say, but I strongly disagree with your review of the daughter, I don’t think that teenager was dramatic at all. I think that teenager was traumatized and that’s what traumatized kids look like. I think that was a very honest and candid view the bully in your school who did shit like that and didn’t know why. That was a young teen girl without a fully developed prefrontal cortex in pain that was so real.

[@colinmitchell1276]

Saw this two months ago and I was surprised with how little stuck with me outside of Fraser’s performance.

[@Orgotheonemancult]

This reminds me of the criticisms of The Master (great performances, but "mediocre" in other ways), but that's one of my favorite films, so I'm actually more hyped now.

[@532orenda]

I saw this film at the BFI Film Fest premiere oh my god. It is soul-crushing, painful, beautiful storytelling that makes you uncomfortable. But it is so good from a filmmaking perspective

[@illuminight1199]

i love your idea about it as a play, i think the scenery of the entire movie taking in charlie's apartment could work really interestingly on the stage

[@jeremysiron9622]

Not my type of movie(my life already has too much drama), but it looks like he did a really good job i it and I’m glad he’s back

[@xpafton7412]

This film will mean a lot, as I'm going to watch it with my mum who views me as Brendan views Sadie in this film. If this film isn't excellent, I cant afford to bring up these emotions in both of us if it won't be a great film. Is it worth going?

[@bingbong2179]

I really loved this film, and think a lot of these critics got the movie entirely wrong.

[@stinkykitten1598]

Brendan made this movie for me. His portrayal made me so emotional and I hope he wins the Oscar. So proud of him. Hong Chau also killed it, why the hell is nobody talking about her???

[@d_ruggs]

i knew a few years ago when brendan was having a resurgence online that someone would cast him in an oscar bate role like this. people are so sympathetic towards him that it was a no brainer. but my god did fraser take that ball and run with it. what a performance

[@ImPacosTacos]

as a father, who HAS a daughter, and never got to see her, father her, be there for her... this movie hits me hard.