And that folks, is how you make a comeback! An actor rarely takes a break from Hollywood, only to return with a bang. Lucky for us, we saw it IRL at the 2023 Oscars, and that’s precisely what Brendan Fraser did in The Whale. The 54-year-old actor has had a remarkable career in Hollywood. He starred in some of the biggest blockbusters of the ’90s and early 2000s. But after a few years of taking a backseat, Brendan Fraser made a triumphant return to the big screen with “The Whale,” which won him the Best Actor award at the 95th Academy Awards AKA 2023 Oscars.
Brendan Fraser first gained attention for his role in “Encino Man”. A goofy comedy about a caveman who is thawed out in modern-day California. Fraser’s charm and humor won over audiences, and he quickly became a fan favorite. But his role in “The Mummy” cemented his status as a Hollywood leading man. His performance was a perfect blend of humor, heroism, and romance, and it made him a household name.
Brendan Fraser, the Oscars 2023 Best Actor
This 2023 Oscars win of Brendan Fraser marks his first Academy Awards trophy. If this is not the biggest Hollywood redemption story, then we don’t know what is. Fraser’s win at the 2023 Oscars surely gives a testament to his incredible talent and dedication to his craft. He beat out some of the biggest names in Hollywood for the Best Actor.
- Starting from the announcement of his name, his standing up from his seat, and the background music, everything seems like a real-life movie. An emotional Fraser faced the crowd in the Dolby Theater. “So this is what the multiverse looks like, my goodness,” he starts.
- “I started in this business 30 years ago. Things didn’t come easily to me but there was a facility that I didn’t appreciate at the time until it stopped,” Fraser continues looking back at his journey in the entertainment industry. Now let’s take a look at five reasons why Fraser won one of the most prestigious awards at the Oscars.
1) Brendan Fraser is just talented
Brendan Fraser proves his talent and cements his position in this film, poising himself with the title. He remains a powerful actor even years after his last film stint, effectively and enchantingly conveying all the emotions of his character.
- With his Best Actor win at the 2023 Oscars for his performance in The Whale, we can only hope to see more of Brendan Fraser on the silver screen again. Fraser reminds us that passionate actors will always find a way to come back to where they belong – on the screen and in people’s hearts.
2) The Darren Aronofsky effect
Darren Aronofsky’s talent for creating wonderful big-screen movies is not just an effect, but a testament to his abilities. Looking back at some of Aronofsky’s huge works, such as Natalie Portman’s Best Actress Oscar-winning performance in Black Swan in 2011, it’s clear that Fraser’s win is no different.
Brendan Fraser accepts the #Oscar for Best Actor for #TheWhale. https://t.co/ndiKiHfmID pic.twitter.com/kNuDy85dpH
— Variety (@Variety) March 13, 2023
- The Best Actors nominees this year are particularly interesting as everyone is a first-timer. What makes Brendan Fraser’s win even more impressive is that Aronofsky gave him one of the best materials to work with. Fraser thanked the filmmaker for “throwing him a creative lifeline and hauling him aboard the good ship, The Whale,” which ultimately brought him the trophy.
3) Brendan’s perfect for Charlie’s role
Fraser’s perfect fit for the role is undeniable. Although known for his humor and leading man roles, he seamlessly transitions into the dramatic portrayal of an obese father in The Whale. His physical transformation to play Charlie is a testament to his passion for this comeback film.
More footage of Brendan Fraser’s make-up transformation for The Whale movie. 🤯🍿 pic.twitter.com/7czD9JwTIA
— TickFilm (@TickFilmApp) February 25, 2023
- Despite playing a 600-pound man in the movie, Brendan Fraser still manages to sweep viewers away with his astounding performance. The Academy Awards undoubtedly recognized his success in pulling off every aspect of his character, from his physical appearance to his emotional depth.
4) The Whale gives him the most dramatic performance
Who doesn’t appreciate a good drama, especially when it’s executed flawlessly? Among all the Best Actor nominees for the 2023 Oscars, Brendan Fraser’s role is undoubtedly the most dramatic. He expertly portrays his character with such emotion and depth that it’s impossible not to be moved.
- Brendan Fraser’s stunning performance throughout The Whale likely left Academy voters in awe. As Dulcie Pearce from The Sun notes, “It’s Fraser who is the outright star of this masterful film, giving such a powerful performance that it will leave even the hardest heartbroken.” His captivating acting undoubtedly played a significant role in securing his Best Actor win.
5) Brendan Fraser’s “reintroduction” to the industry
Although all the other nominees – Austin Butler, Colin Farrell, Paul Mescal, and Bill Nighy – gave outstanding performances, Brendan Fraser’s heartfelt story and triumphant return to the screen gave him an extra edge. While not the sole reason for his win, it undoubtedly added to the impact of his stunning performance.
- After taking a hiatus from the entertainment industry, Brendan Fraser returns with a powerful and epic film, The Whale. In an interview with the Associated Press News (AP News), Fraser remarks, “If anything, this is a reintroduction more than a comeback.” His inspiring return to the screen after years away is a testament to his immense talent and passion for acting.
The Return of Brendan Fraser
Brendan Fraser’s portrayal of The Whale‘s Charlie was a tour-de-force of acting. He put on 150 pounds for the role, using prosthetics and makeup to create the character’s larger-than-life appearance. But it was his performance that truly captured the hearts of audiences and critics alike.
- From the moment he appears on screen, Fraser commands attention. He imbues Charlie with quiet dignity and warmth, despite the character’s physical limitations. His nuanced portrayal of a man coming to terms with his mortality is nothing short of breathtaking. It’s a performance that will stay with you long after the movie has ended.
In the end, Brendan Fraser’s win at the 2023 Oscars was a triumph of talent, dedication, and heart. It was a moment that reminded us of why we love movies and why we need them now more than ever. Congratulations, Brendan Fraser, on your well-deserved win!
Feel free to share your questions with us about Brendan Fraser’s the Whale, and even the 2023 Oscars in the comments below. Until then, stay with us here at Spiel Times for more content.
