Media Maven: “Step Brothers” Movie Review

“Step Brothers”
Will Ferrell, John C. Reilly, Mary Steenburgen, Richard Jenkins

“Step Brothers” is a lame attempt to bring comedy to the big screen. Ordinarily, I explain the premise of a film, allowing you, the intelligent Cincy Chic reader to draw your own conclusion. And then in the end I rate the film giving either an endorsement or advice to wait for it on video.

Let’s cut to the chase and give it a two star rating and be done with it.

I like Will Ferrell. And John C. Reilly is one talented guy. Together, in the right venue, these two capable performers could blow the roof off a well-written comedy. Instead, in “Step Brothers”, they just blow a lot of hot air on trite gags and an implausible story.

If you haven’t already heard the premise, it is a film that could very well have been modeled on the Disney classic, “Parent Trap.” That film was about two 10-year-old sisters who lived with their primary custodial parent for many years before having to live together when their parents reconnect after years of living separately.

In “Step Brothers,” Ferrell plays Brennan Huff, son of Nancy Huff (Mary Steenburgen). John C. Reilly plays Dale Doback son of Dr. Robert Doback (Richard Jenkins). The adults have each raised their sons in an overindulgent lifestyle. They have missed the boat on when to say when to their sons in teaching them to become well-adjusted, self-sufficient contributing members of society.

There lies the beyond believable premise of this movie. Tell me, how many adults are still living at home and in their late 30s and still sleeping in a bedroom with the décor of that of a teenager in junior high? How many would agree to share a room with an other adult of similar age and sleep in a bunk bed?

  Beyond all of the unlikely circumstances: The movie feels forced. When looking at Will Ferrell’s career, there is no doubt he is an outstanding comedian. Lately, his film choices have consistently lowered the bar on showcasing his talent. It’s as if he said, “Yeah, I want to open a college fund for my two sons to go to Harvard in 18 years so I’ll make a movie now and invest the profits for later. Who cares if it’s crap?”

John C. Reilly as costar and co scriptwriter fares no better in this film. There are some admirable physical comedy bits that are amusing but it’s certainly not enough to carry this film.

Chic Stars: Two Chic Stars

Jan’s Movie Rating System:

5 – Top notch entertainment
4 – Compelling, Heartwarming, Thrilling, Comical
3 – The a) story b) actors c) special effects saved/made this movie.
2 – If you are bored, watch it; or wait for DVD
1 – Don’t bother. Too morose, too violent, too blasé, an enigma.