Brothers

Based on the Dutch film of the same name, this gripping drama is more about family than it is about war. Like other recent war-related dramas, this movie does not dwell on the morality of any particular conflict, but rather addresses the humanity involved.

Tobey Maguire and Jake Gyllenhaal play brothers - one "good" and the other "bad". As much as anything else, this movie is about labeling. Parents label kids. Kids label themselves.

Natalie Portman and Sam Shepard play influential roles here as soldier's wife and father respectively. All around, the acting here is solid. The characters are all likable, believable, and the audience will find someone to relate to.

At first I was afraid to watch this movie because I thought it would be too depressing. It was actually not at all what I expected. The story takes us through some complex emotions and real issues relevant to current society.

Watch this with someone who thinks they have issues to deal with.