THE WHALE - Review | TIFF 2022

Darren Aronofsky’s latest film is by far his most raw and secluded film that progresses from being heartbreaking to hopeful. Despite taking place in one setting, its claustrophobic direction combined with its emotionally compelling story of seeking redemption. That’s what never takes away the experience of it feeling only like theatre. But Brendan Fraser’s unbelievable performance and his flawless makeup work are what make this film one that’s impossible to look away from. Possibly some of the best acting ever put on screen along with the rest of his cast members. Another outstanding character study that captures the same magic as Aronofsky’s The Wrestler.

Still Courtesy - A24

Adapted from Samuel D. Hunter's play, we follow Charlie (portrayed by Brendan Fraser). An English college professor living alone in his apartment teaching online classes suffering from obesity and health issues. As various individuals start coming into his life including his repulsive daughter Ellie (portrayed by Sadie Sink) and his friend/nurse Liz (portrayed by Hong Chau). Charlie goes through a journey of redemption as he confronts and attempts to make amends with people who he may have hurt.

It's always really exciting every time Darren Aronofksy puts out a new movie because you never know what you're gonna get. Sometimes he creates an insane and hyper-stylized experience that no other filmmaker could replicate. This includes films like Requiem for a Dream (2000), The Fountain (2006), and his last film mother! (2017). But sometimes, he ends up crafting more grounded and emotionally-driven character pieces like The Wrestler (2008) and Black Swan (2010). Now with The Whale (2022), this definitely fits in the latter side of his filmography. However, his other character studies are not nearly as small-scaled and gut-wrenching as this turned out to be.

When hearing that the entire film takes place in Charlie's apartment, it's very easy for something like this to feel just like recorded theatre. Thankfully, Aronofksy's skill as an expressive director allows him to really capture not only how claustrophobic and hidden staying in this apartment with these people feels. But also the manner he depicts Charlie’s massive body that really leaves an impact. A prime example of this occurs earlier in the film when he moves on his walker to different rooms. In this scene, the slow push-ins and wide variety of shots allow viewers to have a sense of what having obesity in these tight spaces is like without seeming glorified. It’s a style that not only fits with how Charlie feels by being secluded from the outside world. But these directorial choices along with the layered and substantive writing would be nothing without two crucial aspects: Brendan Fraser and his makeup.

It was intriguing from the beginning to see an actor like Fraser take on this kind of role similar to what Aronofksy did with Mickey Rourke in The Wrestler (2008). But from the moment Fraser as Charlie is first introduced to his devastating final moments. It's hard to imagine anyone else who could replace him for how flawlessly and empathetically he captures this character. So much so that the entire film relies on his performance and his makeup being believable and compelling to take seriously what’s happening. Luckily, those two aspects go above and beyond what one would expect. Despite how bleak or unsettling some scenes with Charlie can get. It’ll be a challenge to take your eyes away from Fraser and his prosthetics for how impressive, genuine, and provocative they turned out.

On top of that, the rest of the supporting cast are delivering performances that one could say are just as good. They each serve their purpose while having their own moments to stand out that will certainly leave an impression. Sadie Sink especially who’s so convincing and natural at portraying a repugnant and ignorant daughter that ends up having to show more of her emotional side as the film progresses. That’s the thing about The Whale which could explain its divisive reactions. It’s a bombastic experience driven by actors delivering expressive and sorrowful performances. While this could come across as melodramatic and unpleasant where at times it feels overbearing, especially when its evocative score is utilized. There's no denying that it truly succeeds at investing viewers in the story of this flawed but caring man’s deterioration that still manages to end on an uplifting note. All of this thanks to the talented cast and crew that have made the best possible adaptation of this play.

Verdict

9/10

Still Courtesy - A24