Brother

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1:59

Brother

Released Aug 4, 2023

1h 59m

Drama

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Tomatometer

Popcornmeter

87%

Tomatometer

46 Reviews

80%

Popcornmeter

50+ Ratings

Adapted from David Chariandy's award-winning novel of the same name, Brother is propelled by the pulsing beats of Toronto's early hip hop scene following the story of Francis (Lamar Johnson) and Michael (Aaron Pierre), sons of Caribbean immigrants maturing into young men. A mystery unfolds during the sweltering summer of 1991, and escalating tensions set off a series of events that change the course of these brothers' lives forever. Brother crafts a timely story about the profound bond between siblings, the resilience of community and the irrepressible power of music.

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Critics Consensus

Deeply felt and emotionally resonant, Brother overcomes its imposing length and a certain narrative familiarity with riveting performances and stunning cinematography.

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Isabelle Gray

Little White Lies

Not entirely original, but does what it does very well indeed.

Rated: 3/5

Sep 26, 2023

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Mark Kermode

Observer (UK)

Virgo does a great job of confounding our expectations of macho masculinity, finding tenderness, protectiveness and even neediness beneath the street-tough exterior.

Rated: 4/5

Sep 17, 2023

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Kevin Maher

The Times (UK)

There are fine performances on display and Johnson especially is perfectly nervy as Michael. But the storytelling here could have easily squeezed into a short film or, even better, a slickly shot music video.

Rated: 2/5

Sep 16, 2023

Full Review

William Stottor

Loud and Clear Reviews

Immaculately structured and impressively transferred from page to screen, Brother retains the ferocity, tangibility and emotional heft of David Chariandy’s novel.

Rated: 4.5/5

Aug 13, 2024

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Carmen Paddock

The Skinny

Elegant and elegiac, Brother is a poignant portrait of the messiness of love and loss – be that within a family or an entire community. Even if its ending feels inevitable, the path taken is remarkable.

Rated: 4/5

Oct 6, 2023

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Kevin Harley

Radio Times

Johnson and Pierre suggest decades of fraternal feeling with their soulful performances, while Blake is revelatory as their tough but tender mum.

Rated: 4/5

Sep 29, 2023

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Kyle M

Thematically shines akin through “Moonlight” from another angle and anchored by Aaron Pierre’s form as a brotherly father figure in a drama that tackles social critique tropes to minimal effect, especially once the grip unceremoniously loosens. But overall, an excellent film in its own right means well when conveying repeated messages. (B)

Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars

06/22/25

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Michael C

Great acting and a great movie!!! Superb!!! So well deserved of the awards that it has received!!!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

01/25/25

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Audience Member

Felt like a C version of a Barry Jenkin's film. I found myself bored halfway through it. Pacing was too slow, there were some unnecessary scenes/characters and a lot of dead space. This would've been better off as a short. From the work I've seen thus far, Aaron Pierre's presence tends to be strong and grounded. He's a fine actor, but even he couldn't save this film.

Rated 2 out of 5 stars

12/27/24

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Alexis P

One of my favorite movies I've seen. The layers to the story, writing, cinematography, acting, everything. I may just write a paper about this movie.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

12/21/24

Full Review

xxiv a

. The movie tells the touching and powerful story of two brothers growing up in Toronto, navigating the challenges of life and family. The emotional depth of their journey is beautifully captured through excellent acting and stunning cinematography. The film’s narrative is compelling and resonates deeply, making it a must-watch for anyone who appreciates heartfelt and well-crafted stories. Definitely oscar worthy!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

09/20/24

Full Review

Deniece W

Very underrated movie, great casting, visuals, and storytelling. Aaron Pierre is definitely a rising star to be on the lookout for!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

09/20/24

Full Review

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Clement Virgo

Director

Lamar Johnson

Michael

Aaron Pierre

Francis

Marsha Stephanie Blake

Ruth

Kiana Madeira

Aisha

Lovell Adams-Gray

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Brother: Trailer 1

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Synopsis

Adapted from David Chariandy's award-winning novel of the same name, Brother is propelled by the pulsing beats of Toronto's early hip hop scene following the story of Francis (Lamar Johnson) and Michael (Aaron Pierre), sons of Caribbean immigrants maturing into young men. A mystery unfolds during the sweltering summer of 1991, and escalating tensions set off a series of events that change the course of these brothers' lives forever. Brother crafts a timely story about the profound bond between siblings, the resilience of community and the irrepressible power of music.

Director: Clement Virgo
Producer: Clement Virgo, Damon D'Oliveira, Aeschylus Poulos, Sonya Di Rienzo
Screenwriter: Clement Virgo
Distributor: Vertical
Production Co: Hawkeye Pictures, Conquering Lion Pictures
Genre: Drama
Original Language: English
Release Date (Theaters): Aug 4, 2023, Limited
Release Date (Streaming): Aug 4, 2023
Runtime: 1h 59m

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