When actors go above and beyond to create a physically challenged character, it often gets noticed at awards time. That buzz is certainly around Brendan Fraser, who dons a fat suit to play a homebound 600-pound English teacher. The impediments and challenges that a morbidly obese person faces are explored, but the story also delves into the personal struggles that lend humanity to the character and drama to the narrative. Fraser’s sensitive portrayal is deeply touching and the other members of the small cast contribute effective performances. The fact that this was adapted from a stage play becomes apparent when the situations sometimes get repetitive and the interactions seem emotionally claustrophobic. Director Darren Aronofsky has created a low-key tension throughout, but the climatic scenes aren’t as powerful as Fraser’s performance merits. 
(3.5 / 5)
