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Brothers features acclaimed actors Josh Brolin and Peter Dinklage as twin brothers wrestling with their family’s criminal legacy. In a bid to break free from their tumultuous past, they embark on a daring heist. This crime comedy thrives on its lively ensemble cast, including Oscar winners Brendan Fraser and Marisa Tomei, alongside notable talents like Glenn Close and the late M. Emmet Walsh in one of his last appearances. Director Max Barbakow, recognized for his previous film Palm Springs, discussed the film’s challenging production journey leading up to its exclusive streaming launch on Prime Video.
Bringing Brothers to Prime Video
Rating: 3.5/5
Two twin brothers involved in crime, one aiming to turn his life around, set off on a life-threatening journey to execute a heist. They confront a host of legal issues, violent confrontations, and family conflicts, all while attempting to mend their fractured relationship.
Release Date: October 17, 2024
Director: Max Barbakow
Cast: Josh Brolin, Peter Dinklage, Taylour Paige, M. Emmet Walsh, Jen Landon, Brendan Fraser, Glenn Close, Gralen Bryant Banks, Andrew Joseph Brodeur, Margo Moorer, Brooks Indergard, Jonathan Aidan Cockrell, Joshua Mikel, Pat Fisher, Nathan Hesse, Taylor St. Clair, Alonzo Ward, William Tokarsky, Matt Lewis, Roger Payano, Marisa Tomei
Runtime: 88 minutes
For years, Brolin and Dinklage faced challenges securing financing for the film until Barbakow entered the project. “It’s interesting because, from my perspective, the process felt quite fast. You have to seize the moment when opportunities arise,” the director noted. He had a prior acquaintance with Dinklage and was an admirer of both leads. After receiving a script from Macon Blair, known for his collaborations with Jeremy Saulnier, Barbakow quickly recognized its appeal.
Barbakow explained, “From the first page, I was captivated by the distinctive tone and energy of the characters. I was eager to explore how these actors would challenge their usual roles.” He expressed gratitude for becoming involved in the project, illustrating the unpredictable nature of film production.
The Remarkable Ensemble Portraying Eccentric Roles
Audiences will find Brendan Fraser’s return to comedy refreshing, with this role marking his first in a comedic setting since 1992’s Encino Man. Meanwhile, Glenn Close brings an unexpected humor to her character, contrasting sharply with her dramatic performance in The Deliverance earlier this year. Barbakow praised his diverse cast for diving headfirst into their quirky roles:
“We were fortunate to have some rehearsal time, which involved sharing personal stories and examining the backgrounds of our characters. The magic truly unfolded once we began shooting; the characters really came alive,” Barbakow elaborated.
“Everyone seemed to grasp the bizarre humor inherent in this film,” he added. “It’s a compelling narrative about a unique family. The actors were ready to break away from their usual personas, and there was an inherent trust amongst us. Original comedies like this are rare these days.”
Integrating CGI and Honoring M. Emmet Walsh
The discussion also touched on the film’s amusing moments highlighted by a CGI orangutan. Motion-capture actress Devyn Dalton delivers a standout performance as Tomei’s eccentric orangutan, Samuel, and Brolin and Dinklage shared that the production maintained a sense of professionalism even during some outrageous scenes.
“Devyn’s talent shone through as she played Samuel. Directing her was akin to handling any other scene, supported by the presence of an intimacy coordinator. The process was as entertaining as the final scenes,” Barbakow explained.
“Creating the orangutan in post-production was fascinating. Devyn provided a wealth of expressions that guided our animation of Samuel, significantly contributing to the film’s comedic elements,” he continued.
Barbakow fondly recalled working with M. Emmet Walsh, an actor whose work spans decades. He shared how Walsh infused the set with joy, despite his declining health. “He had a unique way of bringing the group together, often making us laugh. His generosity extended beyond acting; he even handed out $2 bills and autographed headshots to everyone. Collaborating with him was a memorable experience,” Barbakow reflected.
Brothers is now available for streaming on Prime Video—accessible through the following link.
Source
movieweb.com