Our Idiot Brother

“Our Idiot Brother” is a mishmash of several types of movies. It is an absurdist comedy, family drama, and an R-rated raunchy comedy rolled into one. This hybrid makes for a film that has some sweet and funny moments, but also content issues, as well as some serious jumps in logic.

Ned is just an easy-going guy. He loves life, particularly his dog and his garden. Both of those things get taken away from Ned when he idiotically agrees to sell marijuana to a police officer in uniform. After being released from prison, Ned discovers his ex girlfriend has taken his dog and his garden. Feeling sad, but still optimistic, Ned leans on his family for support. His mother and three sisters take turns passing him around, and at each stop he seems to be more trouble for his family than he is worth. Whether it’s uncovering infidelity or sharing secrets, Ned unknowingly forces his sisters to take a harder look at their own lives.

When “Our Idiot Brother” works, it does so because of the cast. Paul Rudd (“Anchorman”, “Role Models”) has impeccable comedic timing and brings the role of easy going Ned to life. Ned’s sisters played by Elizabeth Banks, Emily Mortimer, and Zooey Deschanel do an excellent job of portraying their individual lot in life. The film also makes it easy to love Ned, even when he messes up. It is nice, and almost calming, to watch a character that has no worries and just loves life.

When the film fails, it is because of a lack of consistent tone and content issues. Unfortunately for viewers, the makers of “Our Idiot Brother” decided to go for a more adult film, which will undoubtedly keep most Christian viewers away. There are over 50 f-words, plus many other instances of vulgar language. God’s names are misused many times. There are several instances of nudity and one completely inappropriate sex scene. One of Ned’s sisters is bisexual, and that plot line is explored in detail.

While most R rated comedies this summer like “Hangover Part II” and “Horrible Bosses” tried to push the boundaries, “Our Idiot Brother” was content to simply ruin a sweet story with standard R rated behavior. The film, and especially Ned himself, has the ability to make the viewer smile, but it unfortunately also has the ability to offend. While it is always nice to see something that makes you appreciate life, there are better options than “Our Idiot Brother”.

Violence: Minor / Profanity: Extreme / Sex/Nudity: Extreme

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