Short Answer 
Brendan Fraser prepared for his role in “The Whale” by using prosthetics rather than gaining weight, with a 300-pound suit designed by Adrien Morot utilizing advanced technology. The extensive makeup process initially took five to six hours but was reduced to two to three hours over time, enhancing the character’s realism and reflecting his mobility struggles.
Step 1: Role Preparation
To prepare for his role in the film The Whale, Brendan Fraser needed to portray a character named Charlie who weighs 600 pounds (272 kg). Instead of gaining weight himself, Fraser utilized a remarkable transformation method through the use of prosthetics. This meant that the character’s appearance was achieved by adding a substantial amount of weight through special effects rather than through physical changes in the actor’s body.
Step 2: Prosthetic Suit Design
The creation of Charlie’s look was spearheaded by makeup and prosthetics designer Adrien Morot, who crafted a sophisticated prosthetic suit weighing 300 pounds (136 kg). This suit was designed using advanced technology such as a 3D printer and digital sculpting techniques. The innovative design made it possible for Fraser to embody the physicality of an obese man without compromising his health.
Step 3: Makeup Process
Fraser’s transformation required a significant amount of time spent in makeup, initially taking between five to six hours to prepare. However, as the production progressed, this time was reduced to two to three hours. This extensive makeup process not only contributed to the realism of his character but also reflected the struggles Charlie faced regarding limited mobility, requiring assistance for various tasks throughout the filming.