Martin Scorsese defends Brendan Fraser’s acting in Killers of the Flower Moon amid backlash

Brendan Fraser's role in Killers of the Flower Moon has not been without its share of criticism. Some viewers found his performance to be over-the-top and likened it to the Kool-Aid Man bursting through walls in commercials. A few even labelled it as one of the worst acting performances they've ever seen. However, director Martin Scorsese defended the actor amid the backlash at a recent press conference.

What was Fraser's role in the film?

Killers of the Flower Moon is a Western crime drama set in 1920s Oklahoma, featuring an ensemble cast that includes Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro, Lily Gladstone, and, of course, Brendan Fraser. The movie centers around the murders of Osage Nation members following the discovery of oil on tribal land. Fraser plays attorney W. S. Hamilton and makes a prominent appearance towards the end of the film during a critical trial scene.

However, viewers were not pleased with his screen presence and took to their social media handles to slam the actor. "Brendan Fraser’s presence in Killers Of The Flower Moon is similar to that of the Kool-Aid Man in any given Kool-Aid commercial," one fan wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, and referred to the commercials where the character suddenly bursts through the walls.

Another outraged fan wrote, "As someone who admired Brendan Fraser’s acting in the movie The Whale, his acting in Killers of the Flower Moon was one of the worst acting performances I have ever seen in my life."

What is Apple's defense on Fraser's role?

Apple Original Films, the studio behind the movie, came to Fraser's defense on social media by sharing a page from the book on which the film is based. They highlighted the exclamation point in the source material, suggesting that Fraser's portrayal aligned with the character's intended energy and presence. "Note the exclamation point," Apple said.

What did Martin Scorsese say in support of Brendan Fraser?

In the midst of criticism, director Martin Scorsese has publicly supported Brendan Fraser's performance in the film. Scorsese, who helmed Killers of the Flower Moon, expressed his belief that Fraser was "perfect" for the role of the lawyer during a press conference. He commended Fraser's work over the years and described their collaboration as a positive experience, particularly in scenes shared with Leonardo DiCaprio.

"He actually came in for I think a couple of weeks on the picture, particularly when it was in our later shoot. We had a really good time working together, particularly with Leo. Particularly in the scene where he says, ‘They’re putting a noose around your neck, he’s saving you dumb boy. Really for us, when we heard that… he brought the whole scene down on Leo. It was perfect," said Scorsese.

Scorsese shared his perspective on Fraser's contribution to the movie, mentioning how Fraser's line readings brought depth and impact to a crucial scene, despite online criticism. He pointed out Fraser's physical presence in the frame, underscoring his effectiveness in the role. Scorsese's remarks emphasised his admiration for Fraser as a talented actor and a valuable asset to the film.