In a recent interview with Vanity Fair, Hollywood stalwart Ben Affleck opened up about his admiration for fellow actor Brendan Fraser. The conversation, brimming with nostalgia and mutual respect, took a deep dive into their shared past and Fraser’s transformative performances. But what about Fraser left such a lasting impression on Affleck? Let’s delve into their shared history and the praise that has the entertainment world buzzing in 2023.
A Shared Past: The School Ties Connection and Beyond
In the early ’90s, a film titled School Ties brought together a group of young, ambitious actors, two of whom were Ben Affleck and Brendan Fraser. The movie, a drama set in a 1950s prep school, explored themes of anti-Semitism and moral hypocrisy.
Despite the film’s lackluster performance at the box office, it served as a launchpad for the careers of these budding actors, creating bonds that have withstood the test of time. This shared experience laid the foundation for their future endeavors in the industry, shaping their careers in significant ways.
Ben Affleck’s Admiration and Praise for Brendan Fraser
Fast forward to 2023, Affleck’s admiration for Fraser has only grown. In the Vanity Fair interview with Matt Damon, he lauded Fraser’s awesome personality, stating,
“But I just remember Brendan. I mean, we both remember him as being so kind and such a sweet guy. Yeah, he was just a really good person. You got that sense from Brendan; that way, he was like, no ego. It wasn’t, and you know, young guys can be sort of indistinguishable from chimpanzees, you know, sometimes. He was kind and gracious.”
This quote highlights Fraser’s humility and ability to transform for his roles, a trait that Affleck clearly respects. His words underscore the importance of character building in acting, a craft that Fraser seems to have mastered.
From School Ties to The Whale: Brendan Fraser’s Massive Comeback
Post School Ties, Fraser’s career took an adventurous turn with successful films like The Mummy. Affleck expressed surprise at Fraser’s success in action-adventure films, a testament to his versatile acting skills.
After his long absence from the industry, Fraser has made a massive comeback with his role in The Whale, a performance that has been lauded by critics and peers alike, and has also won him the Oscars for his role in the movie. Affleck has had his share of success with recent films, showcasing his evolution as an actor since School Ties.
The Vanity Fair interview served as a platform for Affleck to express his admiration for Fraser, highlighting their respect and camaraderie. Despite the ups and downs of their careers, their shared history in School Ties and their evolution as actors serve as a testament to their resilience and dedication to their craft.
Source: Vanity Fair – YouTube
