“The Whale” (Lionsgate) is proof that awards nominators know what they’re talking about. The Brendan Fraser movie is that good.

Fraser, who was born in Indianapolis, perfectly plays the part of a reclusive, but sweet-natured, English teacher who attempts to reconnect with his estranged teenage daughter. The movie explores forgiveness, redemption, and humanity in an intimate way that is likely to touch the audience.

Sadie Sink Hong Chau, and Samantha Morton also star in the movie.

Other titles

“The Good Fight: The Final Season” (CBS, Paramount) features more than 8 hours of programming on three discs. As usual, Diane (Christine Baranski) commands the screen, although in this case she almost feels like she is going crazy with an uneasy sense of déjà vu. The DVD includes exclusive deleted scenes, gag reel, and more.

“Goliath” (Icarus Films) is a fine French thriller in which the lives of three characters collide: a teacher who becomes an activist after her husband develops cancer from pesticide exposure, a lobbyist working for a chemical company, and a tireless environmental lawyer.

“All Eyes Off Me” (Film Movement) is the winner of best Israeli feature at the Jerusalem Film Festival. In three loosely connected vignettes, youngsters explore intimacy and the boundaries of their sexuality.

“Sadness and Joy in the Life of Giraffes” (IndiePix Films) is a quirky, coming-of-age drama about a 10-year-old girl who tries to figure out how the world works for a school project. In her quest for the answer, she heads to Lisbon to talk to the prime minister of Portugal. Even more surprises enliven this lovely film.

“Blue Thermal” (Shout! Factory) is a Blu-ray that is a movie adaptation of the acclaimed manga. “Glide” is the word to remember