🪶 Story & Synopsis
“Brothers” is a gripping drama directed by Jim Sheridan, based on the screenplay by David Benioff and the original story by Susanne Bier and Anders Thomas Jensen. The film delves into the lives of two brothers, Sam Cahill (Tobey Maguire) and Tommy Cahill (Jake Gyllenhaal), whose fates take a dramatic turn when Sam, a Marine captain, is presumed dead after his helicopter crashes in Afghanistan.
As the story unfolds, the audience witnesses the complexities of family dynamics, loyalty, and the impact of war on the human psyche. Sam, a respected Marine and devoted family man, leaves behind his wife, Grace (Natalie Portman), and their two daughters, Isabelle and Maggie, as he heads off on his fourth tour of duty. Meanwhile, Tommy, the black sheep of the family just released from prison for armed robbery, steps in to support Grace and the children in Sam’s absence.
Tragedy strikes when news of Sam’s death reaches the family, plunging them into grief and turmoil. Grace finds solace in Tommy’s unexpected support, leading to a brief moment of connection between them. The children, longing for a father figure, gravitate towards Tommy, who tries to fill the void left by Sam.
However, the narrative takes a sharp turn when it is revealed that Sam is not dead but has been captured in Afghanistan. The film explores Sam’s harrowing experiences as a prisoner of war, his struggle with trauma, and his growing paranoia about Grace and Tommy’s relationship. As Sam finally returns home, the family must navigate a new reality where old wounds, guilt, and unspoken truths come to the surface.
“Brothers” delves deep into the psychological toll of war, the bonds of brotherhood, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. With stellar performances by the lead actors and a poignant exploration of love, loss, and redemption, the film captivates audiences with its raw emotion and powerful storytelling.
🧑 Cast & Crew
Akshay Kumar, Sidharth Malhotra, Jackie Shroff, Jacqueline Fernandez, Shefali Shah, Kulbhushan Kharbanda, Rajendranath Zutshi, Ashutosh Rana
Movie Casting:
- Tobey Maguire as Capt. Sam Cahill
- Jake Gyllenhaal as Tommy Cahill
- Natalie Portman as Grace Cahill
- Sam Shepard as Hank Cahill
- Mare Winningham as Elsie Cahill
- Bailee Madison as Isabelle
- Taylor Geare as Maggie Cahill
- Patrick John Flueger as Joe Willis
💬 Reviews and feedback
Hey there movie buffs! Ready to dive into the world of cinema with me? Let’s unravel the layers of the movie “Brothers” and see if it’s worth your time and popcorn!
Imagine a rollercoaster ride where you’re not sure if you should scream in terror or cheer in excitement. That’s the kind of emotional journey “Brothers” takes you on. With a stellar cast, especially Tobey Maguire, who delivers a performance that will tug at your heartstrings, this movie delves deep into the after-effects of war.
The film may not hit the bullseye of perfection, but it definitely hits home with its poignant portrayal of family dynamics amidst the backdrop of war. It’s like that comforting bowl of mac and cheese on a rainy day – not gourmet, but oh so satisfying.
Plot and Themes:
- Family Love: Amidst the chaos of war, “Brothers” shines a spotlight on the theme of unconditional family love. The Cahills’ story is a testament to how familial bonds can endure even in the toughest of times.
- Redemption: Another key theme in the movie is redemption. While Sam’s sacrifices are honored in church, the narrative weaves a tale of seeking redemption outside traditional religious realms.
Acting and Characters:
Tobey Maguire steals the show with his portrayal of Sam Cahill, a marine facing inner demons from his time at war. His performance is raw and emotionally charged, showcasing a range that leaves a lasting impact. The supporting cast adds depth to the narrative, making each character feel like a piece in the intricate puzzle of family dynamics.
Direction and Cinematography:
The director deftly navigates between scenes at home and those depicting Sam’s harrowing experiences as a prisoner. The contrast is stark yet seamless, immersing viewers in both worlds with equal intensity. The cinematography enhances this duality, capturing emotions in every frame.
Score and Production Design:
The score sets the mood perfectly, tugging at heartstrings when needed and building tension where necessary. The production design creates a realistic backdrop for the characters to navigate their tumultuous journey, adding layers to their emotional turmoil.
Binge-watching Tips:
If you’re looking for a movie that delves into complex human emotions while exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption, “Brothers” is your go-to pick. Grab some tissues because this one is sure to evoke some tears!
Pace and Dialog:
The pacing keeps you engaged throughout, never letting go of your attention. The dialogues are crisp and laden with emotion, delivering punches where needed and solace where sought.
Verdict:
In conclusion, “Brothers” may not be a box office hit, but it certainly hits home with its powerful performances and heartfelt storytelling. It’s like that underdog you root for despite its flaws – imperfect yet endearing.
Rating: 8/10
So there you have it! Grab your snacks, cozy up on your couch, and immerse yourself in this emotional rollercoaster called “Brothers.” Remember, sometimes it’s not about perfection; it’s about feeling every moment deeply!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| First-rate cast | Script could have been better |
| Addresses after-effects of war | Dull storytelling |
| Highlights unconditional family love | Some scenes could have been improved |
| Good acting performances | Payoff not earned in some parts |
| Touches on themes of redemption | Lazy sequence |
| Realistic portrayal of the effects of war | Some rushed moments |
| Interesting and profound drama | Could have delved deeper into character development |
Feedback
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Brothers (2009 film) - Wikipedia
Brothersis a 2009 American psychological thriller war film directed by Jim Sheridan and written by David Benioff. A remake of the 2004 Danish film, it follows Captain Sam Cahill (portrayed by Tobey Maguire), a presumed-dead prisoner of the War in Afghanistan who deals with extreme PTSD while reintegrating into society following his release from captivity. The film also stars Jake Gyllenhaal as Cahill’s brother and Natalie Portman as his wife. Both films take inspiration from Homer’s epic poem theOdyssey.
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Brothers (2009) - IMDb
- Awards
- 4 wins & 16 nominations
- Private Joe Willis
- (as Patrick Flueger)
- Director
- Writers
- All cast & crew
- Production, box office & more at IMDbPro
Did you know
- TriviaJake Gyllenhaal learned of the death of his close friend Heath Ledger while he was in the middle of shooting a scene for this film. Gyllenhaal immediately walked off set, and returned to finish the scene two days later. He then took a longer bereavement leave before he was ready to continue with the rest of his scenes.
- GoofsThe movie gives the location of the Marine Base as “Fort Mahlus”. Only the US Army begins their bases with “Fort” (i.e. Fort Benning, Fort Bragg, etc). The US Marines begin their bases with “Camp” (i.e. Camp Pendleton, Camp Lejeune, etc).
- Quotes Sam Cahill: You know what I did to fucking get back to you? Grace Cahill: No. Sam Cahill: YOU FUCKING BITCH! YOU KNOW HOW HE FUCKING SUFFERED? HE FUCKING SUFFERED BECAUSE OF YOU! AND WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO MY FUCKING HOUSE AND MY FUCKING KIDS, GRACE? YOU ARE FUCKING MY BROTHER! Grace Cahill: Sam, you know I didn’t. Sam Cahill: YOU ARE FUCKING MY BROTHER IN MY FUCKING HOUSE!
- SoundtracksRocky Mountain ManWritten by David ManzanaresPerformed by David JamesPublished and Recorded by David Manzanares (BMI)
A United States Marine returns home from Afghanistan with PTSD and thinks his Brother is sleeping with his wife and moving in on his family. Then the crap starts to hit the fan.
- Awards
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Brothers (2009) - Plot - IMDb
- While on tour in Afghanistan, Sam’s helicopter is shot down and he is presumed dead. Back home, it is his screw-up brother who looks after the family. Sam does return, but with a lot of excess baggage.
- Before leaving on his second tour in Afghanistan, Marine Captain Sam Cahill, a leader, an athlete, a good husband and father, welcomes his screw-up brother Tommy home from prison. He’d robbed a bank. In country, Sam’s helicopter is shot down and all are presumed dead. Back home, while Sam wastes away as a prisoner in a remote encampment, Tommy tries to take care of the widow and her two children. While imprisoned, Sam experiences horrors unbearable, so when he’s rescued and returns home, he’s silent, detached, without affect, and he’s convinced his wife and brother have slept together. Demons of war possess him; what will silence them?—<jhailey@hotmail.com>
- U.S. Marine Captain Sam Cahill is well respected, not only by his colleagues but also by his family, especially his ex-Marine father, Hank Cahill. Although he is also loved by his family – his high school sweetheart wife Grace, and their two young daughters, Isabelle and Maggie – they, Isabelle in particular, do not like his frequent absences. Coinciding with the imminent and only latest of his deployments to Afghanistan is the release from prison of his brother, Tommy Cahill. Grace does not much like Tommy, and Hank feels Tommy has not earned his respect, which does not change by Tommy’s actions post-prison. Shortly into this tour of duty, the Cahills learn that Sam has been killed in action. Largely because of Grace’s grief, Tommy finally comes to the realization that he needs to become a responsible adult, filling the role vacated by Sam in more ways than one. In their mutual grief, Tommy and Grace fall into each others arms – which does not go any farther than a single kiss – and the girls see in their Uncle Tommy the father that they don’t have in Sam, namely one who is constantly present in their lives. This new life changes when they all learn that Sam was not killed, but was taken captive in Afghanistan and now rescued. Sam’s return leads to a difficult transition for all concerned, not only because of Grace and the family having settled into a life without him and with Tommy, but also because of the trauma experienced by Sam in Afghanistan in relation to how he sees Grace and Tommy together.—Huggo
- Sam Cahill (Tobey Maguire) and Tommy Cahill (Jake Gyllenhaal) are brothers. A Marine captain about to embark on his fourth tour of duty, Sam is a steadfast family man married to his high school sweetheart, Grace (Natalie Portman), with whom he has two young daughters, Isabelle and Maggie (Bailee Madison, Taylor Grace Geare). The film opens with Tommy being released from jail for armed robbery, not long before Sam departs for Afghanistan in October, 2007. Soon news comes that Sam’s helicopter has crashed over the water, killing all of the Marines aboard. In reality, he and a hometown friend, Private Joe Willis (Patrick Flueger), have been taken prisoner in a mountain village. With Sam “gone”, Tommy attempts to redeem himself in the eyes of his family by wrangling old friends to help with kitchen repairs for Grace and the kids. Grace slowly sheds her previous resentment towards her brother-in-law. As months pass, Grace and Tommy bond over their mutual mourning, culminating in a passionate fireside kiss. They regret it afterward, and do not take this attraction any further, though Tommy continues to win the favor of his nieces. Meanwhile, Sam and Joe are abused and tortured by terrorists, forced to make videotaped dismissals of the military and their mission, though only Joe cracks. The captors eventually deem him useless and force Sam, at gunpoint, to beat Joe to death with a lead pipe. He does so and reacts angrily. Sometime later, Sam is rescued. Sam returns home, clearly traumatized by his experience. He drifts through encounters in a cold, paranoid daze, refuses to explain to his family what happened while he was in Afghanistan, and lies to Joe’s widow that he does not know how Joe died. He also believes Tommy and Grace had a sexual relationship in his absence. During Maggie’s birthday party, a resentful and jealous Isabelle claims that Sam’s paranoid assumptions are true: that Tommy and Grace slept together. Sam becomes enraged, destroying the newly remodeled kitchen with a crow bar and pulling a pistol on Tommy who arrives and tries to calm his brother’s violent tantrum. The police arrive, and after a frantic confrontation in which Sam holds the gun up against his head and nearly commits suicide, Sam surrenders. Sam is admitted to a mental hospital. Grace visits him and tells him that if he does not tell her what is tormenting him, he will lose her forever. Faced with this decision, Sam finally opens up about the source of his pain, confiding in her that he killed Joe and they embrace. A letter between husband and wife is read in voice over, with Sam wondering if he will be able to continue living a normal life.
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⚠️ Explanation (Spoiler)
“Brothers” is a compelling drama directed by Jim Sheridan, known for his expertise in portraying intricate family dynamics in films like “In America” and “In the Name of the Father.” The movie delves into the lives of two brothers, Sam Cahill (Tobey Maguire) and Tommy Cahill (Jake Gyllenhaal), whose relationship is strained due to their contrasting life choices. Sam, the responsible and admired brother, is a Captain in the military, while Tommy, the troubled sibling, has a criminal past and struggles to stay out of trouble.
The story takes a dramatic turn when Sam is presumed dead in a helicopter crash while on duty in Afghanistan. The news devastates his wife Grace (Natalie Portman) and the entire family. Tommy, despite his rocky history, steps in to support Grace and her daughters in the absence of Sam. Portman’s portrayal of Grace navigating through grief and unexpected circumstances adds depth to the emotional core of the film.
However, the plot thickens when it is revealed that Sam is actually alive and returns home after enduring harrowing experiences as a prisoner of war. The narrative skillfully juxtaposes the harsh realities of war with the domestic struggles faced by the family, highlighting the psychological toll it takes on Sam, who is haunted by guilt and suspicion.
The dynamics between the characters are intricately woven, with each actor delivering a nuanced performance. Maguire shines in his portrayal of Sam’s inner turmoil and emotional detachment post-war, showcasing a darker and more complex side of his acting abilities. Gyllenhaal brings depth to Tommy’s character as he grapples with his past and strives to make amends.
Sam Shepard’s portrayal of the father, Hank Cahill, adds another layer to the family dynamics, as his favoritism towards Sam and disdain for Tommy create tension within the household. The film explores themes of guilt, forgiveness, and the complexities of familial relationships, offering a poignant reflection on the human capacity for redemption and self-destruction.
“Brothers” is not just a war drama but a profound exploration of human emotions and moral dilemmas. It raises thought-provoking questions about what we can forgive ourselves for and the impact of our choices on those we love. The movie’s adaptation from a Danish film adds a unique perspective, with Sheridan’s direction and the stellar performances elevating the narrative to a poignant and thought-provoking experience.
👪 Parents Guide & Age Rating
TV-14
Age Rating:
The movie “Brothers” (2009) is rated R for strong violence and intense scenes.
Parental Guide:
Parents should be aware that “Brothers” contains intense scenes of violence and emotional turmoil that may not be suitable for younger viewers. Here is a detailed breakdown of the content:
- Violence & Gore: The movie includes scenes of a man smashing a house kitchen in a fit of rage with a crowbar, lots of broken glass shown, and a man having a meltdown with a crowbar in the kitchen. The violence is brief, intense, and some of it happens off-screen.
- Profanity: There are instances of strong language used throughout the film.
- Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking: Some scenes depict characters consuming alcohol.
- Frightening & Intense Scenes: The movie contains emotionally intense scenes that may be disturbing for some viewers.
Due to the strong violence, intense emotional themes, and language, “Brothers” is recommended for mature audiences aged 17 and above. Parents are advised to preview the movie before allowing teenagers to watch it.
📺 Streaming and where to watch
| streaming service | extra information |
|---|---|
| Starz Apple TV Channel | Currently, you are able to watch ‘Brothers’ streaming on Starz Apple TV Channel. |
| Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store | It is possible to buy ‘Brothers’ on various platforms such as Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store as download or rent it on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store online. |
❝ Quotes and Cult
There's one on the floor if you want one.
Why couldn't you just stay dead!
I don't know who said 'only the dead have seen the end of war'. I have seen the end of war.
🤖Brothers Reddit Talks
Brothers (2009) is a powerful and thought-provoking film that explores the themes of war, family, and trauma. The movie follows two brothers, Sam (Tobey Maguire) and Tommy (Jake Gyllenhaal), who are both deployed to Afghanistan. Sam is captured and tortured by the enemy, and when he is finally rescued, he returns home a changed man. He is haunted by PTSD and struggles to adjust to civilian life. Tommy, on the other hand, becomes a hero for his actions in Afghanistan, and he is welcomed home with open arms.
The film explores the different ways that war can affect people. Sam is deeply traumatized by his experiences, and he struggles to cope with the memories of what he has seen and done. Tommy, on the other hand, seems to be relatively unaffected by his time in Afghanistan. However, as the film progresses, it becomes clear that Tommy is also struggling with the effects of war, just in a different way.
The film also explores the theme of family. Sam and Tommy are very close, and they rely on each other for support. However, their relationship is strained by Sam’s PTSD. Sam becomes increasingly withdrawn and isolated, and he pushes Tommy away. Tommy tries to help Sam, but he doesn’t know how to reach him. The film also explores the relationship between Sam and his wife, Grace (Natalie Portman). Grace is a strong and supportive wife, but she is also struggling to cope with Sam’s PTSD. She loves Sam, but she doesn’t know how to help him. The film explores the different ways that war can affect a family, and it shows the importance of love and support.
The film has been praised for its acting, directing, and writing. Tobey Maguire gives a powerful performance as Sam, and Jake Gyllenhaal is equally good as Tommy. Natalie Portman also gives a strong performance as Grace. The film is directed by Jim Sheridan, who does a great job of creating a tense and suspenseful atmosphere. The script is well-written, and it does a great job of exploring the themes of war, family, and trauma.
Overall, Brothers is a powerful and moving film that is sure to stay with you long after you watch it. It is a film that will make you think about the effects of war, the importance of family, and the power of love.
Here are some of the specific topics that are discussed on Reddit about the film Brothers (2009):
- The effects of war on soldiers and their families
- The importance of love and support
- The challenges of PTSD
- The relationship between brothers
- The role of women in war
- The morality of war
- The power of forgiveness
These are just a few of the many topics that are discussed on Reddit about the film Brothers (2009). The film is a complex and thought-provoking work of art, and it is sure to generate a lot of discussion and debate.
Top discussions
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/mvmshe/what_do_you_think_about_brothers_2009/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/16c85ak/brothers_2009/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/5fjv0w/brothers_2009_incredibly_powerful_scene_and/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/4e0xre/what_are_your_thoughts_on_the_2009_movie_brothers/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/iwatchedanoldmovie/comments/7gjcay/i_watched_brothers_2009_and_was_disappointed/
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Brothers movie worth watching?
The reviews for Brothers highlight that the movie is not first-rate but it effectively portrays the after-effects of war, making it worth watching while waiting for better options. The cast, especially Maguire, is praised for their performances.
Was Brothers a hit or flop?
Brothers was considered a flop at the box office. Despite having a budget of 112 Crore, the movie only managed to gross 97.29 Crore in India and 1.23 billion worldwide.
What was the message in the movie Brothers?
The movie Brothers emphasizes on themes of unconditional family love and redemption. It showcases how the Cahill family, despite being a traditional Christian family, deals with the challenges of war and sacrifice.
Does Sam end up with Grace in Brothers?
In Brothers, Sam is a devoted family man married to his high school sweetheart, Grace. However, due to unexpected events upon Sam’s return, the consequences of their actions threaten the foundation of the entire family.
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