Brendan Fraser Shares the Movies He Loves Most
Brendan Fraser has been enjoying a career resurgence, and fans are getting a deeper look into the actor’s personal tastes. In an interview with Letterboxd, Fraser shared the four films that have had the biggest impact on him and which he considers his all-time favorites.
One of Fraser’s picks is the French short film The Red Balloon, directed by Albert Lamorisse. Released in 1956, the 34-minute film follows a young boy in Paris who discovers a red balloon that seems to have a mind of its own.
Fraser explained why it resonates with him, saying, “There’s something magical about the way it tells a story without words. It’s simple but profound.” The film was widely praised upon release, winning the Palme d’Or for Best Short Film at the Cannes Film Festival and an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay, and it is often cited as a classic example of French poetic realism.
Another of Fraser’s favorites is the 1987 John Hughes comedy Planes, Trains and Automobiles. Starring Steve Martin and John Candy, the film follows Neal Page and Del Griffith as they struggle to get home for Thanksgiving, facing one mishap after another. Fraser reflected on the performances, saying, “Candy breaks my heart every time I see it. I think of him often.”
Critics have lauded the film for its blend of comedy and heartfelt emotion, and it has become a Thanksgiving staple for many families, praised especially for the chemistry between Martin and Candy.
Fraser also selected Buster Keaton’s 1926 silent comedy The General, co-directed with Clyde Bruckman. The film tells the story of a railroad engineer during the Civil War who tries to rescue his kidnapped train and his love interest. Fraser admires the film’s technical brilliance and timing. Upon its release, The General received mixed reviews but over time has been recognized as one of the greatest silent films ever made.
Film historians praise Keaton’s physical comedy, daring stunts, and storytelling, and it frequently ranks high on lists of the greatest films in cinematic history.
Finally, Fraser included George Lucas’ 1977 space epic Star Wars. The original Star Wars, later retitled Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope, revolutionized science fiction and blockbuster filmmaking. Fraser said of the film, “It’s pure adventure. It reminds you what movies can do when they sweep you off your feet.”
Star Wars was a massive critical and commercial success, earning ten Academy Award nominations and winning six, and it spawned one of the most beloved and influential franchises in film history.
- The General (Buster Keaton, Clyde Bruckman, 1926)
- Planes, Trains and Automobiles (John Hughes, 1987)
- The Red Balloon (Albert Lamorisse, 1956)
- Star Wars (George Lucas, 1977)
Brendan Fraser’s choices reveal his love for storytelling that mixes emotional depth, humor, and technical innovation. From silent-era masterpieces to modern sci-fi epics, Fraser’s picks reflect both his personal taste and a respect for cinematic craft.
Which of Brendan Fraser’s favorite films is your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments.
