The Whale, a 2022 psychological drama directed by Darren Aronofsky, features Brendan Fraser as Charlie, a reclusive English teacher. While the film is a serious exploration of grief and redemption, specific stills—notably of Charlie standing up or looking intensely emotional—became viral templates on social media. Users often employ these images to represent extreme physical or emotional exhaustion, hyperbolic reactions to everyday minor inconveniences, or the feeling of being overwhelmed. The meme gained significant traction following Fraser's career comeback and his subsequent Academy Award win, blending genuine respect for the actor with internet-style situational humor.