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During the 1990s, Brendan Fraser was a prominent figure in Hollywood, delivering hit after hit. However, as the mid-2000s approached, his career trajectory appeared to falter, transitioning from blockbuster roles to lesser-known films. Fast forward to the 2020s, and Fraser made a triumphant return, captivating audiences anew. His intriguing journey from a ’90s action icon to an Oscar contender ranks among Hollywood’s most compelling narratives. Even during his quieter years, Fraser continued to shine in remarkable films. One such example is the 2021 HBO Max original film, “No Sudden Move,” directed by Steven Soderbergh. In this film, Fraser shares the screen with Benicio del Toro, Don Cheadle, David Harbour, and Bill Duke in a supporting role.
HBO Max
Set against the backdrop of the 1950s, “No Sudden Move” follows three small-time criminals: Curt Goynes (played by Cheadle), Ronald Russo (portrayed by del Toro), and Charley (Kieran Culkin). They are recruited by Doug Jones, played by Fraser, to intimidate the family of a Detroit accountant, portrayed by Harbour, to acquire a critical document. However, when their plan unravels disastrously, Goynes realizes they have been set up, forcing them to collaborate with the accountant to uncover the true nature of their predicament.
While “No Sudden Move” garnered critical acclaim, it initially flew under the radar, despite achieving commendable viewership numbers. Though it was one of the year’s most well-received thrillers, only now are audiences truly appreciating it. We strongly suggest adding it to your watchlist, especially amid buzz surrounding Fraser’s potential return as Rick O’Connell in a much-anticipated “Mummy” sequel.
In an interview with Screen Rant, Brendan Fraser discussed the film’s production, which began in late 2020 amidst the ongoing challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Making a movie during that time seemed almost impossible,” Fraser remarked. “We faced delays — initially set for April 2020, it was halted. There was uncertainty about whether it would resume.”
Fortunately, director Steven Soderbergh collaborated with the studio to get the project back on track. “We had stringent safety protocols in place just to be on set. Frequent testing was mandatory, and rightly so.” Fraser noted that beyond the safety measures, the global situation contributed to a heightened sense of unity among the cast and their characters.
COVID-19 added a heightened sense of drama
HBO Max
“Bill [Duke] and I noticed something special in our ensemble’s performance,” Fraser reflected, emphasizing how the pandemic fostered a close-knit group. “This camaraderie is evident in the dedication and performances, driven by a shared determination to succeed against significant odds. It’s a testament to the resilience of art in the face of challenges.” Ultimately, “No Sudden Move” stands out as one of Fraser’s finest works.
Thankfully, director Steven Soderbergh was able to work with the studio and get the film up and running. “We had safety protocols, and all of that as a requirement to just show up to work. We were tested [often], and for good reason.” But more than just the precautions adding tension to the production, Fraser believes that the stress from everything else going on in the world added to the sense of camaraderie between the actors and their characters.
“Something that I know Bill [Duke] and I both noticed is that, in watching the movie, the ensemble has some sort [of] binding agent or something about it.” Fraser acknowledged that the pandemic helped bring the cast together as a more tightly knit group, all watching out for each other. “That shows in the performances and the dedication that went into really wanting to get this done under very high stakes. It’s a testament that when there’s a will, there’s a way. I take a bigger lesson from this that art can prevail throughout this kind of a challenge.” In the end, it wound up as one of Fraser’s best movies.
