Movie Review: The Whale

"The Whale", released at the end of 2022, was one of those films I'd put off intentionally. I'd heard the buzz about Brendan Fraser’s powerful comeback, the emotional intensity, and its reputation for reducing viewers to tears. Honestly, I was saving it. Some movies demand your full attention, and this was that movie for me. Plus, emotional films often set off my "allergies," leaving me misty-eyed.

A few weeks ago, I finally found the perfect quiet moment, settled in, and pressed play. Within minutes, I understood the hype. "The Whale" isn’t just a movie—it’s an intense, deeply personal experience.

Darren Aronofsky brilliantly confines nearly all the action to Charlie's small apartment, creating a feeling of tension and intimacy. You're pulled into Charlie’s world, experiencing every bit of his struggle.

Brendan Fraser’s performance was indeed transformative. Beyond the makeup and prosthetics, he portrays a vulnerability and loneliness that's painfully real. You don’t just see his physical pain; you feel the emotional torment he’s going through.

Hong Chau’s Liz, Charlie’s nurse and friend, is equally powerful. She's brutally honest, fiercely protective, and someone who genuinely cares. Their friendship feels real and complicated in a way only true friendships can.

Sadie Sink as Ellie, Charlie’s estranged daughter, brings a raw, explosive energy to their troubled relationship. Their interactions feel authentic—tense, painful, and deeply human.

The film bravely tackles addiction, self-hatred, depression, and the search for redemption without sugar-coating. As someone who once weighed over 100 pounds heavier than I do now, I felt a strong connection to Charlie's challenges. At my heaviest, depression and diabetes were constant threats, and my weight created personal and social obstacles I struggled to overcome. Although I've worked hard to get healthier, the memories of feeling trapped in that place of isolation and despair are still vivid. Losing the weight helped my body, but also transformed my mindset, opening doors to healthier living and better emotional connections.

The Whale isn’t an easy watch, but it’s rewarding. It asks difficult questions about empathy, forgiveness, and personal responsibility. The characters each carry their burdens, reminding us that everyone is fighting unseen battles. Yet, even amid pain, there are sparks of genuine connection and hope.

In the end, this movie stayed with me long after watching. It’s a powerful example of cinema's ability to explore complex emotions and remind us how beautifully human we all are.

Love
-M