Watch Call Me Brother
- 2018
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5.4 (108)
Call Me Brother is a romantic comedy-drama film that was released in 2018. The movie follows the story of two siblings, Theresa (played by Christina Parrish) and Gabe (played by Andrew Dismukes), who reunite in their hometown after spending several years apart. Gabe has just returned home after a stint in Los Angeles, where he had hoped to become a successful actor but has instead landed in trouble, while Theresa is still living at home with their parents, working at a local gas station, and dealing with the aftermath of a recent breakup with her boyfriend.
From the outset, the film establishes the close bond that Theresa and Gabe share as siblings. They are clearly affectionate towards each other, and have an ease in each other's company that speaks to a deep familiarity and understanding. But the dynamic between them is complicated by the fact that Gabe has always harbored a secret crush on his sister, a fact that he is unwilling and unable to articulate to her directly.
As the movie progresses, we see the siblings navigate the ups and downs of their reunion. They reminisce about their shared experiences growing up, and ritually revisit the places and landmarks that have played a key role in their lives. But the shadow of Gabe's unrequited feelings looms large over their interactions. At times, he is almost painfully transparent in his desire for Theresa, while at other times he tries to pretend that everything is normal, afraid of how she might react if he admits to his feelings. Meanwhile, Theresa begins to see Gabe in a new light, forced to confront the fact that he has always been a constant presence in her life, and perhaps the only man she has ever truly known.
The film is distinguished by its genuine affection for its characters, and the way it treats their relationship with sensitivity and nuance. Parrish and Dismukes are both excellent, imbuing their characters with a deep emotional complexity that makes their interactions feel authentic and meaningful. There is a sense throughout the movie that this is a story about two people who are struggling to find their place in the world, and who need each other more than they know.
One of the most interesting aspects of the movie is the way it uses humor to offset the obviously fraught nature of the siblings' relationship. There are moments of absurdity and irreverence that punctuate the movie, offering a much-needed release of tension. One standout scene involves the siblings trying to recreate a photo they took together as children, which quickly devolves into a hilarious argument about what the original photo actually looked like.
Ultimately, what sets Call Me Brother apart from other movies about taboo relationships is its unwillingness to take the easy way out. The filmmakers never push the envelope too far, instead choosing to treat their characters with empathy and respect. As we follow Theresa and Gabe through their various exploits, we are left with a sense that their bond is something special, a connection that transcends societal norms and expectations.
Overall, Call Me Brother is a tender, thoughtful movie about the complexities of familial love and the ways in which our relationships with those closest to us can evolve over time. With its deft blend of humor and pathos, it is a film that lingers long after the credits roll. Whether viewed as a romantic comedy or a coming-of-age story, it is a movie that is sure to resonate with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
Call Me Brother is a 2018 comedy. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.4.