One of the earlier films of the recent trend of remaking newer foreign films, Jim Sheridan’s “Brothers” is a worthy movie in its own right and stands out as a modern classic.
Based on the Danish film “Brodre,” “Brothers” is about a military and family man, portrayed by Tobey Maguire, that gets deployed overseas to Afghanistan. Early in his deployment, he goes missing and is presumed dead. The missing man’s brother Tommy, played by Jake Gyllenhaal, steps up to the plate for what the audience is lead to believe for the first time and helps the grieving family. Tommy’s presence brings comfort and normalcy to his brother’s wife and two children, and they slowly begin to live life in spite of their great tragedy. After life begins to become a comfortable routine once again, Sam’s wife, Grace (Natlie Portman) receives a phone call that her husband Sam is, indeed, alive, and the family brings their long-lost member home. It isn’t long before it becomes quite clear that Sam is suffering from some form of mental breakdown, and the family pulls together to help their soldier as well as try to deal with the life changing events that have continually plagued their own lives. But, in the face of so much adversity, can the family fix all that is broken? This is the question posed by the film and explored in depth throughout.
Jim Sheridan is certainly not new to directing, although few of his films have really made a big impact in the American landscape. Those that know his directing style, however, from the likes of “The Boxer” and “In America” are aware that the heart of every one of his films is family. The scope of plot that is employed in his movies is huge, but the ultimate point of each film is always the same: how a family relates, loves, and works together. “Brothers” is no different, and although the thematic element of war is present, Sheridan makes it blatantly obvious that he is dealing with how a family handles grief, stress, and adversity and the love that a family has to pull themselves through such hardship.
Sheridan’s flawless direction is supported by cinematographer Frederick Elmes whose keen eye for detail is obvious in every shot. Another noteworthy element to the film is the original score and music, for which it also earned a Golden Globe nomination. Thomas Newman’s compositions carried the emotion of the film from the opening scene right through to the ending credits. Portman, Maguire, and Gyllenhaal all have memorable performances that are likely to stand out among their careers. Newcomer Bailee Madison demonstrates a maturity to her acting few ever accomplish, in spite of only being 10 years old, and Carey Mulligan’s brief appearance shows audiences why her fame and appeal is ever-growing.
Overall, “Brothers” is a marvelous and ingenious film with elegance in every aspect. This film is sure to cement Sheridan’s allure in the United States as well as land a spot on every modern classics list. A must-see for any fan of dramatic film!!
(As a side note, I have not yet seen “Brodre” to compare the two films, although I did recently purchase the movie. When I get the opportunity to view it, I will be sure to post a review with a comparison!!)
I’m not sure I’ve seen any Jim Sheridan films, though you certainly make me want to watch this one! Great review, and it sounds like a film that would be right up my alley with a cast to die for.
I would have to say that I agree with your review. I was very impressed with this film in the aspects of families dealing with hardships such as the case in this film. There were moments in this film were I thought the acting was superb! The actors protrayed there emotions so realisticly, giving me a sense that it was such a tramatic experience to go through. I have only seen this film by Jim Sheridan, but after watching this movie and reading your review, I am definately looking forward to watching more of his films.
Sheridan has done My Left Foot, The Boxer, The Field, In the Name of the Father, Get Rich or Die Tryin, In America, and Brothers. I’ll be honest, I never had any interest in the 50 Cent movie until I discovered that Sheridan directed it… although I have yet to watch it. He really is pretty great, and I also recommend In America highly. :)