Brendan Fraser Wins Best Actor at The Critics Choice Awards

Brendan Fraser’s Best Dramatic Actor win at the 2023 Citics Choice Awards, for his work in Darren Aronofsky’s The Whale, sets the stage for two emotional favorites and the most interesting Oscar race in years.

In a year of great performances, both Fraser and Elvis star Austin Butler have risen above the field of this year’s Best Actor contenders with their respective wins. While Fraser did not attend the Golden Globes, and given his history with the embattled organization, it wasn’t a surprise that he didn’t take home that award. Still, nothing should be taken away from Butler’s Golden Globe win for his excellent work, and for practically becoming Elvis, in Baz Luhrmann’s box office hit.

The death of Lisa Marie Presley has made it a difficult week for Butler who, just five days ago during his Globes acceptance speech, expressed deep admiration and love for her and Priscilla Presley for having embraced and supported him throughout his journey. Whatever critics and fans might say about the expression Butler wore after Fraser’s win, it should be remembered that his thoughts were likely on his friend tonight. The near familial bond Butler has shared with the Presley family throughout the process of making the film would have given him strength during the creative process. Now, that support is certainly flowing in the opposite direction. Whatever Butler was thinking or feeling, beyond any accolades and awards, you can be sure that Lisa Marie was at the forefront of his thoughts.

Some things are bigger than the movies.

Austin Butler at the 2023 Critcs Awards