The Whale: James Corden almost starred as Brendan Fraser’s character in a defunct version of the film

Beloved actor Brendan Fraser is experiencing a hell of a Hollywood comeback, thanks partly to his role in Darren Aronofsky’s The Whale. Fraser is likely to earn an Academy Award nomination for playing Charlie in the new film, an obese and reclusive English teacher hoping to reconnect with his daughter (Sadie Sink). Fraser received a 5-minute standing ovation for his performance at the London Film Festival last year, marking another milestone event leading up to the film’s release. However, there’s an alternate reality where Fraser is not the film’s star. According to The Late Late Show host James Corden, he almost starred in a defunct take on The Whale.

According to Deadline, Corden landed the role of Charlie when fashion designer and director Tom Ford was developing a version of the film. However, Corden says the project fell apart when Ford asked for “complete control” over the movie. While Corden was undoubtedly interested in the role, he admits that he might have been too young to play the part properly.

Based on Samuel D. Hunter’s story, The Whale is an emotionally-crippling drama about remorse and making amends before it’s too late. Fraser is exceptionally proud of his involvement with the film and expressed his gratitude while speaking with Newsweek in September last year, saying, “It’s gonna be like something you haven’t seen before. That’s really all I can tell you…The wardrobe and costume was extensive, seamless, cumbersome. This is certainly far removed from anything I’ve ever done but not to be coy…I do know it’s going to make a lasting impression.”

In addition to hosting powerhouse performances from the cast, The Whale is sure to gain attention for its outstanding makeup and costuming. Fraser looks incredible in the film as a 600-pound man. The look is not easy to pull off, but the team behind The Whale pulled out all the stops to make it look natural. Fraser hopes audiences experience feelings of empathy for Charlie and feel things they didn’t expect to feel.

Could James Corden have pulled off the role of Charlie for a different version of The Whale? Feel free to let us know what you think in the comments section.