Brendan Fraser.Photo: David Crotty/Patrick McMullan via Getty
Brendan Fraseris soaking in all the praise for his role inThe Whale.
He adds, “That’s gratifying, to say at least, and that kind of opportunity does not come along in this circus show of show business that we all play along with sometimes. But when it does, andit’s material that’s handled with careand the project comports itself in a way that’s interesting and important, I feel very fortunate and lucky to be a part of it.”
Fraser’s commitmentto the role, in which he playsa 600-lb. man who reckons with the limits of his reclusive life over a period of five days, has earned him multiple award nods, including aGolden Globenomination.
On Thursday, Fraser clinched his latest honor for the performance, receiving the Spotlight Award at the Palm Springs event.
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Brendan Fraser.Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty
The impact is not lost on theMummyactor, he says, but he notes that the recognition works both ways.
“It invigorates me to see the positive effects that this film is having for its audience,” he says. “And after everything’s said and done about giving a performance and a film that’s popular, that’s all fine and well and wonderful.”
“It’s remunerative, in a way, for me to think that this is a story that will live on and you can refer back to and you can see it again. And I think it can do some good,” Fraser adds.
The Whale’s message has clearly resonated with those who have seen it, beginning with an overwhelming response — and six-minute standing ovation — after its world premiere in September at theVenice Film Festival.
RELATED VIDEO: Brendan Fraser Gets Emotional During 5-Minute Standing Ovation forThe Whalein London
The star, who had not had a major role since 2013, then became emotional as he took a bow before the audience.
Fraser has said that he initially took on the project after seeking a role that would help him learn “what I was capable of.”
“Ifthere’s no risk, then why bother?” he toldVanity Fairlast August. “I want to learn from the people I’m working with at this point in my career.”
Fraser added, “I’ve had such variety, alot of high highs and low lows, so what I’m keen for, in the second half of my time doing this, is to feel like I’m contributing to the craft, and I’m learning from it.”
The Whaleis in theaters now.
source: people.com
