Brothers (2009)

A soldier serving during the war in Afghanistan is taken hostage and presumed dead by his family, leaving his inept brother to look after them.

Starring Jake Gyllenhaal as Tommy, an ex-con who can’t seem to find a path in life, and Toby Maguire as Sam, a successful marine for the U.S. Army with a loving wife (Natalie Portman) and two daughters. The two brothers have a close bond, Sam being Tommy’s only true friend, and trying to steer him in the right direction in life. Having grown up with a father who served during the Vietnam war, the two brothers turned out very differently, but were affected significantly by the man’s harsh treatment.

When Sam’s wife Grace is told of her husband’s helicopter crash in the mountains of Afghanistan, she becomes desperately upset. Tommy soon steps up as the responsible uncle, and slowly fills the void that his brother has left, and takes care of Grace and the kids. At first his role is simply functional, helping to fix up the dilapidated kitchen, taking the kids ice skating, but, after a few months, Tommy and Grace begin to become closer and have confusing feelings about each other.

Meanwhile, we see Sam imprisoned in an insurgent camp in the mountains with a fellow soldier. His treatment is horrific, being left to starve for days, and forced to tell information. On one terrible occasion he is asked to commit a terrible deed, which will change his entire nature.

It is a powerful film, with brilliant performances. Gyllenhaal delivers as Tommy, portraying the bursts of anger with subtle humanity and charm. Portman is great as the devastated Grace, her reaction to the situation is very sad and effective. However, the most impressive performance is Maguire as Sam. The evolution of this character is so gripping to watch and disturbing in places, and Maguire tackles the role with amazing confidence.

The themes of the film are very engaging, such as the effect of modern war on soldiers; how they are sometimes unable to relate to their loved ones once they return home, and how the battlefield becomes their home. Also, the tragedy of the relationship which builds between Tommy and Grace is touching at points, but also uncomfortable to watch in places. There is almost a guilty pleasure in seeing them happy together.

Watch this film if you like great performances, gripping drama, and an unusual story.