“Brothers” Illustrates Post-War Reality

By Pia Bhathal

Jim Sheridan’s newest movie “Brothers” is more than a mere depiction of the war in Afghanistan. It is a portrayal of how soldiers struggle to feel at home after they have come home. The film’s closing statement, “It is said that those who see the end of war die. I have seen the end of war. The question is how can I live again?” proves to be the root of the film and leaves a lasting impression on those who can appreciate an understated piece of work. “Brothers” tells the story of marine Sam Cahill (Tobey Maguire) and his black sheep brother Tommy Cahill (Jake Gyllenhaal). Shortly after Tommy is released from jail, Sam leaves his family for his fourth tour of duty in Afghanistan. After Sam’s helicopter crashes, Grace Cahill (Natalie Portman) is notified of Sam’s death. However, Sam survives the crash and is captured by the Taliban, who physically and psychologically torture him. Sam endures horrific conditions, which Sheridan presents shakingly but believably. When Sam returns home to his surprised family, he is extremely unhinged. The trauma he endured in Afghanistan proves to be too much to bear. Although “Brothers” is one notch below the original Danish film it was inspired by, “Brodre,” it is still worthy of acclaim. “Brothers” is an ensemble performance at its best. Maguire, Gyllenhaal, and Portman each delve deep into their individual characters and showcase their talent as actors. I knew Maguire could shoot web out of his wrist and protect New York City from danger, but I didn’t believe that he could perform with such intensity and vigor as he did in “Brothers.” His representation of a marine with severe post traumatic stress disorder is realistic, which prevents the film from becoming melodramatic. Maguire’s acting is spot on— passionate, yet dark. Gyllenhaal effectively plays the role of a man who evolves into an anchor for a family in grief, even after the one person who accepted him has died. His chemistry with Portman is clear throughout the film. Portman perfects the subtle nuances that are vital to her character as a widow and mother who is forced to move forward in her life. The surprise performance of the film is child actor Bailee Madison, who plays the oldest of Sam’s two daughters, Isabelle Cahill. Her praiseworthy acting raises tension in the film, leaving you feeling anxious in your seat. While “Brothers” is made in a rather simple manner and the trailer gives away much of the plot, this does not undermine its value. The credit of this film does not lie in technicalities such as editing, cinematography, or screenplay. It lies in the powerful message it projects to its audience.