Brothers

Captain Sam Cahill (Tobey Maguire) is a good marine, a good father, and a good brother. When news comes that he is killed in action in Afghanistan, his ex-con brother, Tommy (Jake Gyllenhaal) cleans up his act and steps in to support Sam’s wife, Grace (Natalie Portman), and her two young daughters. Grace, Tommy, and the kids grow closer together until shocking news arrives: Sam is still alive.

The ClearPlay Factor

ClearPlay filters around 30 F words, an assortment of other profanities, and some scenes of violence, mostly stemming from Sam’s ordeal in Afghanistan. Some of the family conflict and captivity scenes may disturb younger viewers.

Should I Bother With Brothers?…

This is a satisfying drama that benefits from a fine group of actors. Tobey Maguire in particular deserves kudos for his portrayal as a changed, hurt man after returning from the horrors of captivity. Brothers highlights the destructive effects war and adversity can have on soldiers and their families while also showing the healing and redemptive power that service and brotherhood can provide. Recommended.

Brian Fuller— ClearPlay Brother from Another Mother

Rated R for language and some disturbing violent content.; 104 min; Directed By Jim Sheridan