Brendan Fraser Praises Dwayne Johnson’s Career Transition
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In a recent exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Brendan Fraser shared his excitement about Dwayne Johnson’s new career phase. Fraser predicts that fans of Johnson will see more of him on the red carpets in the near future following the premiere of his latest movie, “The Smashing Machine,” which received rave reviews at the Venice Film Festival. Fraser, who reunited with PEOPLE at the Toronto International Film Festival for the premiere of his film “Rental Family,” spoke highly of his former “The Mummy Returns” co-star, referring to Johnson as “a really great guy.”
Johnson’s movie, “The Smashing Machine,” is set to hit theatres on October 3, while Fraser’s “Rental Family” is scheduled for release on November 21. Fraser, 56, expressed his anticipation for Johnson’s new movie, highlighting how Johnson’s career trajectory has evolved over the past two decades. He commended Johnson’s transition from action films to taking on more dramatic roles, such as portraying former UFC fighter Mark Kerr in “The Smashing Machine,” a performance that has garnered attention as a potential awards season contender this year.
Fraser, who had a career resurgence in recent years, particularly after winning Best Actor at the 95th Oscars for his role in “The Whale,” has been making waves in the industry. Since his Oscar win, Fraser has appeared in various films including “Behind the Curtain of Night,” “Killers of the Flower Moon,” and “Brothers.” In “Rental Family,” Fraser takes on the role of an American actor living in Tokyo, working for a Japanese “rental family” agency where he plays stand-in roles for strangers.
The new movie, “Rental Family,” directed by Japanese filmmaker Hikari, has been a collaboration that both Fraser and Hikari cherished. Hikari shared her admiration for Fraser’s vulnerability and kindness, noting that these qualities were instrumental in casting Fraser for the role. She highlighted the natural connection and deep conversations they shared, making the filming experience enriching and fulfilling.
With Johnson’s “The Smashing Machine” hitting theatres on October 3 and Fraser’s “Rental Family” releasing on November 21, film enthusiasts can look forward to both actors gracing the big screen. The Toronto International Film Festival, where Fraser and Johnson’s films were showcased, continues until September 14, offering a platform for diverse cinematic experiences.
As fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming releases and performances of both Brendan Fraser and Dwayne Johnson, the entertainment industry remains abuzz with discussions on their career trajectories and contributions to the world of cinema. It is indeed an exciting time for these acclaimed actors as their diverse roles continue to captivate audiences worldwide.