Studio: Lionsgate / A24
Release Date: March 14, 2023
Rating: R
Film: 2.5/5
Plot From Darren Aronofsky comes
The Whale, the story of a reclusive English teacher who attempts to reconnect with his estranged teenage daughter. Starring Brendan Fraser and based on the acclaimed play by Samuel D. Hunter.
My ThoughtsFrom the outset, I had a very hard time getting through this film. The first time we’re introduced to the reclusive teacher, he’s on his couch masturbating to gay porn and call me a prude, but I just couldn’t get past that one scene the rest of the movie. Frasier’s character is depressing and while I’m happy that he won the Oscar for his portrayal, I can’t say it was an enjoyable way to spend nearly 2 hours of my life. By the end, I knew I was supposed to feel sorry for his, but he made poor choices in life and I pitied him more than anything. As Forrest Gump says, “Stupid is as stupid does.”
Video 4/5 (AVC)
Audio 4/5 (DTS-HD MA 5.1)
Special Features:· People Are Amazing: Making
The Whale· The Sounds of the Sea: Scoring
The Whale· Digital Copy
Conclusion I have a very hard time recommending this film outside of seeing Frasier’s performance. It was Oscar worthy, but very difficult to get through. The presentation is about what you’d expect from a drama but Tehbeware it’s not an uplifting film by any stretch. Caveat emptor.
Reference Review System: JVC DLA-RS2000 4K Ultra High-Definition Front Projector
(Calibrated with Portrait Displays CalMAN color calibration software & C6-HDR Meter from Portrait Displays)
Stewart Filmscreen - Firehawk 110” 2.35:1 Screen
Trinnov Altitude 16 Audio/Video Processor
ATI AT527NC Powering Bed Channels
ATI AT524NC Powering Atmos Speakers
Panasonic DP-UB820 Ultra HD Blu-ray Player
System Controller: URC MX-990
M&K S-150 THX Ultra (R-C-L Speakers)
M&K SS-150 x4 (Surround Speakers)
Atlantic Technology IC6-OBA x 4 Overhead Speakers
SVS PC-Ultra Cylinder Subwoofer
SVS SB3000
HSU VTF-15H MK2 Subwoofer
M&K Sound X15+ Subwoofer
Mini DSP HD controlling all subwoofers
Audioquest and Monoprice - Audio/Video/Speaker Cabling
PureAV PF60 Power Conditioner