“Brothers” Movie Review

*This movie contains topics of drugs, violence, sexual content and foul language that could be triggering. Read at your own discretion*

On Thursday, October 17th, 2024, Amazon Prime Video released “Brothers” starring Peter Dinklage and Josh Brolin. This movie packs surprising punches. Deceit, conflicting morals, Peter Dinklage with a six-pack, and an unsavory scene with an orangutan.

This combination comes together, but do the puzzle pieces fit or did the audience just lose an hour and a half of their lives? That is to be discussed here in this article.

The movie follows the shady past of Jady and Moke Munger, twin brothers who share a love/hate relationship with their family and break the rules. The last time they saw their mother, she fled a jewel robbery with her then-boyfriend.

After time passes, Jady returns to his brother with a plot to make some less-than-legitimate money. Moke, who worked to put the past behind him in order to start a family, could not resist his slippery brother’s ploy. It is only a matter of time before the plan goes off the rails, and the lies start to crumble in front of them.

One aspect that stands out is the acting. The acting brings the viewers back to the wacky early 2000s era of movies. It's reasonable to say, the Oscars won't be calling this project.

Although the cast contains blockbuster stars, the script does not call for any breathtaking dialogue. The main thought was the hope the actors had a fun time filming.

Director Max Barbakow captured the nostalgic feeling that some may have with the naughty yet goofy comedies that were so prevalent at the start of the millennium. “Brothers“ uses violence as a form of comedy, and also uses situations that can be uncomfortable to many members of the audience.

The R rating allows for some colorful scenarios. There are scenes that include situations that should not be watched in a public setting.

Some portions of the film seemed entertaining, but the overall reaction was underwhelming. The promotion rode the coattails of the star-studded cast. Some might find it exciting to see some of the actor’s performances break away from their traditional roles.

Seeing Josh Brolin’s wardrobe containing a fast food worker then, in a matter of seconds, a finance intern was not something the industry has seen. Brendan Fraser playing an incompetent daddy’s boy did not redefine the genre, but was entertaining.

Overall, this movie is not worth the rewatch.

With respect to the cast and crew, it was an okay movie that seemed forced at times. It's fine to have it on to passively watch or if the viewer is curious of the versatility of an actor.

In the end, it seemed like a cash grab. The movie seems to aim for average and land somewhere around there.

The movie’s premiere is just in time for the holiday season. At the very least, the viewers can use this movie as motivation to get along with their family, despite disagreement.

The audience could have mixed opinions on the film depending on where their expectations were. Best case scenario, go into this movie without expectations.

Let the smooth narration of Peter Dinklage transport the viewer into a frenzy of unfortunate events and uncouth icons. Watch the action unfurl in the newest dark comedy from MGM, “Brothers,” now streaming on Amazon Prime Video.

Rating 2/5

Scott Moorhead is a fifth year majoring in communications. To contact him, email srm5943@psu.edu