The 2023 Oscars were one of the most important of the last decade, and are especially remembered for the Oscar awarded to Brendan Fraser, who, after spending more than a decade in obscurity and revealing the harm done to him by some Hollywood producers, managed to rise again and lift the most coveted statuette. Now, the film for which he achieved this feat is available on Netflix, making it ideal to revisit.
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Subscribe (it's FREE) ►Along with many other new releases coming to Netflix this November, such as the second season of Arcane or Whiplash, The Whale lands on the streaming platform. Directed by Darren Aronofsky, who has incredible films like Mother!, Black Swan, or Requiem for a Dream to his credit, the movie is undoubtedly a work to be considered by any self-respecting cinephile.
A Heartbreaking Story Within Four Walls
The Whale is a striking psychological drama that explores the complex life of Charlie, a literature professor who lives secluded in his apartment, dealing with severe obesity and a terminal illness. Heartbreakingly portrayed by Fraser, Charlie tries to reconnect with his daughter Ellie (Sadie Sink), a teenager who carries her own share of resentments and frustrations.
As the movie progresses, the viewer discovers that Charlie has reached his current situation due to a series of losses and self-destructive decisions. His social exile and deteriorating health are the result of a life marked by abandonment and grief after the death of his partner, Alan, which led him to find solace in food until he almost completely lost control over his body.
The only connection he maintains with the outside world is through online literature classes, in which his camera remains off to hide his appearance. However, his life takes a turn when Ellie reappears after years of estrangement, and Charlie sees in her his last chance to redeem his mistakes.
Adapted from the play of the same name by Samuel D. Hunter, the story is heartbreaking and full of depth. Its dialogues are sublime, and despite not standing out particularly for its staging, it manages to compress an incredible story within four walls… and many pounds.
