Brendan Fraser has opened up about his ongoing struggle with confidence, despite his recent success in Hollywood. The actor, renowned for his Oscar-winning role in The Whale, discussed his experience while promoting his latest film, Rental Family, during an interview with the Associated Press. Fraser, who portrays a struggling American actor in the Japanese drama directed by Hikari, revealed that the role serves as a poignant reminder of his own insecurities.
Fraser admitted to grappling with feelings of inadequacy throughout his career. He stated, “I always have the feeling of not being good enough. Believe me, no one can be harder on me than me.” His self-reflection highlights the intense pressure celebrities often face, as he noted that “no critic, no pithy internet comment can be more biting to me than myself in my private thoughts.”
Despite the accolades that accompanied his performance in The Whale, Fraser noted that winning an Oscar did not significantly alter his self-perception. He shared a memory of Lorne Michaels, creator of Saturday Night Live, who once told him, “You know, it’s all about confidence.” Reflecting on this, Fraser mused, “I don’t know if that psyched me up or not,” underscoring the complex relationship between confidence and performance.
Fraser’s journey took him to Japan for the filming of Rental Family, where he immersed himself in the culture. He described this experience as something he “needed,” indicating a desire for personal growth and discovery. The film explores themes of familial bonds and personal connection, which resonate with Fraser’s own narrative of resilience.
The 56-year-old actor humorously recounted his search for meaningful projects, stating, “Honestly, I was kind of floating during that whole time without an agent…I was looking for that unicorn project that hadn’t been made into oblivion.” This quest led him to consider the film’s premise, which he described as akin to choosing a pet from a shelter: “Which dog do you like at the pound? I like the one with four teeth and one tweaky eye.”
Fraser’s ability to reflect on his career and personal challenges has garnered him significant attention. As he continues to embrace new opportunities, there are reports of potential projects, including a possible sequel to The Mummy franchise.
As Rental Family currently plays in theaters, Brendan Fraser’s candid discussion about his confidence and self-worth resonates with many. His journey serves not only as a reminder of the complexities of personal struggles but also highlights the transformative power of art in addressing such issues.
