Brendan Fraser's Journey to Self-Confidence and Unique Film Roles

Brendan Fraser, a 57-year-old Oscar-winning actor, discusses his ongoing struggles with self-confidence and the pursuit of meaningful projects in his career. Fraser stars in "Rental Family," a film directed by Japanese filmmaker Hikari, which explores themes of connection, vulnerability, and the concept of family beyond biological ties. The movie is based on a real practice in Japan where actors are hired to play family members, companions, or audience members to address social loneliness. Fraser found a strong personal connection to the story and appreciated the opportunity to spend four months filming in Japan, where he also learned some of the language and embraced the culture. Fraser notes that at this stage in his career, he prioritizes projects with unique stories that resonate on a human level, which he refers to as "unicorn projects." His role in "Rental Family" came after his acclaimed performance in "The Whale," for which he won a best actor Oscar. Fraser credits his children as major influences in his personal growth and emotional learning, emphasizing the importance of family and relationships in his life. He reflects on his childhood moving frequently due to his father's diplomatic career and his early attraction to storytelling through theater. Fraser also touches on the challenges of balancing parenting and personal relationships, particularly during the upbringing of his three sons. He acknowledges the pressures actors face during auditions and the importance of turning fear into motivation. The actor's recent career resurgence, sometimes termed the "Bren-aissance," has brought renewed attention and opportunities. Fraser offers advice on overcoming self-doubt, emphasizing self-acceptance and confidence as key elements for success. He encourages others to recognize their own worth and capabilities, framing confidence as central to personal and professional fulfillment.