Brendan Fraser recently shared insights about his family’s history during a visit to Ireland. His great-grandfather, Patrick Devine, fled the Great Famine in Ireland. At just 11 years old, he traversed the Atlantic alone in the 1830s and settled in Pennsylvania. There, his family transitioned into coal mining, with a descendant later becoming a candy wholesaler.
Brendan Fraser’s Career Journey
Fraser’s acting career began in the 1990s with his breakthrough roles in movies like *George of the Jungle* and *The Mummy*. However, his career faced challenges during the early 2000s due to personal controversies. Recently, Fraser has made a notable comeback with performances in films such as *No Sudden Move*, *Killers of the Flower Moon*, and *The Whale*, for which he won an Academy Award.
Upcoming Film: Rental Family
In his new film, *Rental Family*, directed by Hikari, Fraser stars as Phillip Vanderploeg, an underemployed American actor in Tokyo. The film explores the unique concept of “rental families” in Japan, where actors fill roles as temporary family members for individuals seeking companionship.
The Concept of Rental Families
Fraser described the rental family phenomenon, which has been practiced in Japan since the 1980s. Currently, there are over 300 agencies in operation. This arrangement raises questions about identity and the lives of both actors and clients involved:
- Who hires rental actors?
- What drives them to seek this service?
- What emotional needs do these arrangements fulfill?
Personal Reflections
Fraser reflected on his own experiences, acknowledging feelings of imposter syndrome as an actor. “You hope you’ve earned what you have,” he noted, emphasizing the industry’s competitive nature.
His childhood involved frequent relocations, thanks to his father’s job as a Canadian foreign-service officer. This experience gave him a unique adaptability that has benefitted his acting career. Encountering diverse cultures molded his perspective and approach to life and work.
The Evolution of Brendan Fraser
Fraser’s passion for acting ignited after watching *Oliver!* during a trip to London. He trained in dramatic arts in Seattle before pursuing opportunities in Hollywood. His versatility allowed him to explore different characters, steering clear of being typecast.
Despite facing setbacks, including a decline in roles linked to public allegations, Fraser persevered. Winning an Oscar for *The Whale* marked a turning point, showcasing his ability to captivate audiences with challenging roles.
Looking Ahead
Fraser is set to appear as General Dwight D. Eisenhower in the upcoming film *Pressure*, which will delve into the crucial decisions surrounding D-Day. He credits his enduring resilience in the industry to his foundational experiences and diverse upbringing.
Dwelling on his roots, Fraser indicated a growing connection to Canada, expressing affection for Montreal. His reflective nature and past experiences continue to shape his career path as he navigates the evolving landscape of acting.
