Brothers (2009)

"There are two sides to every family."

- Brothers

I had the opportunity to see this film recently. Let me just say, it's a very powerful and thought provoking film.

Basically, it's about family and realizing who you are is not necessarily who you will be in the future. There are two brothers, Sam (played by Tobey McGuire) who is the "good son" and Tommy (played by Jake Gyllenhaal ) who is the "bad son."

Now, the movie opens up as Sam goes to pick Tommy up who has been in jail for armed robbery for the past couple of years. Unlike Tommy (aka the "bad son"), Sam is the opposite - he is a military soldier serving his country and devout family man married to his high school sweetheart, Grace (played by Natalie Portman).

Though both Sam and Tommy are complete opposites, they are still family - still brothers by blood. And, because of this they are still bound.

As Tommy is reunited with his family after being release from jail, there is a lot of tension within the family. Mostly due to his conviction and life of crime. Though, they are still family nonetheless.

The turning point in the film was when Sam (who is a Marine) was called to his fourth tour of duty. He knew he would have to go and serve his country - even if it meant giving up his life. I don't want to ruin the movie for you, but let's just say this part of the film was a really life changing event for Sam. (If you've seen the film, you'll know what I'm talking about).

While overseas, Sam witnessed things he never had to deal with being back home. It truly was a life altering experience and had an effect on him thus changing his life forever.

While Sam is gone, Tommy and his family learn to cope with life without Sam. In a sense, life went on. And, in the long run - life had changed. So, when an event takes place after Sam's absence that forces life to go back to how it was before - it could not. The change in events had altered the course of their lives forever.

This is a film about oneself and knowing oneself. It's a very powerful film that makes a bold statement - who you are is not necessarily who you will be in the future. Things change. Life changes. And, people can change - your destiny is not written.

Overall, I really enjoyed the film. It was very powerful and thought provoking. And, I think there are some people who can relate to some aspects of the movie.

If you're in the mood for a drama type film, I highly recommend this one. Check it out!

Happy movie watching!



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