Year: 2023

“The Whale” (2022). Cast: Brendan Fraser, Sadie Sink, Hong Chau, Samantha Morton, Ty Simpkins, Sathya Sridharan, Jacey Sink. Director: Darren Aronofsky. Screenplay: Samuel D. Hunter. Play: Samuel D. Hunter, The Whale (2012). Web site. Trailer. Compassion is something we could all use more of these days. That’s especially true for those who are trying to resolve difficult personal challenges. They need backing when it comes to helping them sort out the issues they face. But how do we offer support, particularly when we see others engaging in what we believe to be self-destructive behavior? Such are the questions raised in the gripping new drama, “The Whale.” English professor Charlie (Brendan Fraser) has a full plate to address, both literally and figuratively. The reclusive creative writing instructor teaches classes remotely from his dimly lit, claustrophobic apartment in the small college town of Moscow, Idaho. However, Charlie’s students never get to see him on screen; he perpetually claims that his laptop camera is out of order, a repair that never seems to get fixed. In actuality, though, Charlie is embarrassed to be seen online. As a 600-pound morbidly obese man, he’s ashamed of his appearance and can’t bear others seeing what he ...