Informed Attraction

17. Fat Suits III - The Whale Is A Movie

Aug 10, 2025
Big feelings take center stage as the hosts dive into 'The Whale,' dissecting its portrayal of fatness and Brendan Fraser's powerful comeback. They explore the complexities of character transformation, body representation, and societal perceptions of vulnerability. A comedic debate over the identity of a meatball sub lightens the mood, while a deeper discussion unfolds about enabling behavior and family dynamics. The hosts critique cinematic tropes and reflect on emotional disconnection, making for a thought-provoking and entertaining conversation.
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INSIGHT

Directors Lose Their Edge

  • Aubrey Hoffer says young directors are hungry and try to prove themselves.
  • That hunger can fade into ego-driven, self-indulgent filmmaking over time.
INSIGHT

Oscars Sometimes Function As Apology

  • Aubrey Hoffer suggests awards can act as Hollywood apologies for past slights.
  • She argues Brendan Fraser's Oscar felt partly like a compensatory 'we love you' gesture.
INSIGHT

Comeback Sympathy Clouds Criticism

  • Aubrey Hoffer notes Brendan Fraser spoke publicly about a 2003 sexual assault.
  • That disclosure complicated critiques of The Whale and muddied responses to his comeback.
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