The Whale [Blu-Ray] (English audio)

I gave myself two options in advance: I thought I would either love it, or I would consider that Hollywood had simple made a lot of fuss over nothing... As always, reality and the truth are more complex. It was highly imperfect. The screenplay and dialogue, and even the theatricality of the acting of the suporting roles, suffered from the hangover of The Whale's roots in a theatrical performance. It felt like a stage production. No amount of CGI, expensive prosthetics, and the odd flashback or hallucination sequence turned it into a "cinematic" experience... But criticisms aside, there WAS something very powerful from the writing and in the actors' grasp of their characters. These qualities made it a solid, if somewhat pedestrian, four star movie - and I was genuinely glad to have seen it; it wasn't a waste of my time! I've always liked Brendan Fraser, and I was delighted to see a role that truly showed off his considerable dramatic chops. Perhaps it felt like Frazer was channelling the complexities of his own pain and his life experience, into the passion of his performance. I was glad to see he was rewarded with an Oscar.

This is a one-set adaptation of a stage play. As a theatrical drama the script must (and here does) many layers of narrative. Thematically the Whale as deeply wounded characters projecting trauma onto loss and search for impossible resolution, becoming both the search and the perpetrator of the wound, is textually linked to Ahab's amputation and search for both Moby Dick and self.Superbly acted and directed. I cannot for the life of me understand how one 'professional' critic slammed the film for having characters repeatedly entering and exiting the scene etc. Has this person ever been to the theatre? In fact, this is a conventional theatre piece seamlessly made into film.The drama of inner and external conflicts (critic, take note) is the unbearable tension and pain which proceeds, again very conventionally, towards final release and redemption. Thematically, too, 'redemption; is important to the jagged religious and existential dimensions of each character and the relationships between them. The film-play reflects the final scene in Moby Dick when, after a descent into hell, Ishmael arises from the waters to cling to a coffin and be saved. Readers of some editions of the book will know the copious annotated references to biblical and other sources.A profound and very moving film.

The Whale" is a profoundly moving film that fearlessly plunges into the depths of human emotion, forging an intense connection between the viewer and the exceptional performances delivered by the talented cast. With a powerful narrative exploring themes of love, loss, pain, and regret, this film presents a remarkable journey of reconciliation and the self-imposed penance that one endures to escape the clutches of emotional turmoil.From the very beginning, "The Whale" grips your heart and refuses to let go. The stellar performances by the actors breathe life into complex characters, conveying their internal struggles and personal tragedies with raw vulnerability. Each scene feels meticulously crafted, evoking a range of emotions that resonate long after the credits roll.The film's exploration of love is both poignant and bittersweet. It showcases the profound impact that love can have on our lives, as well as the weight of the consequences that follow when love is lost or betrayed. The characters' journeys highlight the profound resilience of the human spirit, as they navigate the treacherous waters of grief and seek solace amidst their painful realities.One of the most striking aspects of "The Whale" is its unflinching portrayal of the self-destructive tendencies that individuals employ to drown out their pain. The film fearlessly delves into the depths of human suffering, offering a candid examination of the profound ways in which individuals grapple with their personal demons.Brendan Frazer's performance is one for the ages and the movie deserves all the praise given to it. The supporting cast fit very well, all providing excellent performances especially Sadie Sink filling her roles with emotional raw talent.

Very heavy topic, outstanding performance from Brendan Fraser and great film. Can’t say I’d rush to watch it again but def one to be seen.

I am not obese, neither am I gay but I had a connection with this film, sometimes we make choices in life that cause ripples that can tear people apart, we stray from honesty as it seems the easiest correct path, punishing ourselves because we know we hurt others and the pain is unbearable, the pain of conflicting beliefs the harm done by religion, the lack of acceptance because we are not the norm. Unconditional love from those that see goodness in another even if that hurts this film is deep and well performed. It is a feel good film as it shows hope of acceptance and forgiveness.

It's a nice movie talking about the important things in life and your choices

and a wonderful supporting cast. This film absolutely tore at my heart strings. It was emotionally charged in one way and another from start to finish. Unless you've walked in someone's shoes, and if you haven't, we never have a right to judge. It's what's in people's hearts that matter, not what is on the outside. This film will stay with me for some time.

I had been excited about this movie for some time and it didn't disappoint. Brendan Fraser's performance is fantastic. He truly embraced the role with gentleness and honesty. For such a small cast it was emotional and effective in helping us understand the intimate details of what life is like for some people in a similar situation. In fact, the small cast really does make it feel like you're watching intimate moments that you shouldn't be witness to.It's wonderful to see Mr Fraser back to sharing his timeless talent.