Comedy Duo Hits Most Cylinders

"Step Brothers" (2008)
Directed by: Adam McKay
Starring: Will Ferrell, John C. Reilly, Mary Steenburgen
Running Time: 98 minutes
Rut's Rating: 3.5/5

The actor/director team of Will Ferrell and Adam McKay return with "Step Brothers", an R-rated comedy co-starring John C. Reilly about two childish adults forced to co-exist after their parents fall in love and get married. It's new on DVD this week, and marks the third time Ferrell and McKay have collaborated on a comedy, following the 2004 classic "Anchorman" and 2006's "Talladega Nights".

"Brothers" definitely isn't for everyone. As mentioned, it does carry an "R" rating as there is a lot of four-letter words spoken by the characters. But if you liked movies such as "Old School", "The 40 Year Old Virgin" and "Superbad", then this one may be up your alley.

Brennan Huff (Ferrell) is 39 and unemployed. He lives with his mother. Dale Doback (Reilly) is 40 and unemployed. He lives with his father (Richard Jenkins). When their respective single parents start dating and get married, Brennan and Dale struggle to get along and the pair begin a series of pranks and jokes against each other to mark their territory. Eventually, the two find common ground and their minds revert to child-like states as they build forts, play sports and become close. However, when the pair is given an ultimatum by their parents and told to find jobs, they realize that they have to start acting their age and grow up.

I liked "Step Brothers". The movie doesn't try to be something more than it is and pretty much revels in it. I'm also glad to see Will Ferrell having to share the screen with John C. Reilly, someone who has just as much comedic talent. I got tired quickly of Ferrell's past on-screen antics, which pretty much consisted of the same role; an overly-macho, self-loving individual who usually is a superstar in some random sport (I'm still trying to get "Blades of Glory" out of my head.....*shudder*). Here, Ferrell is shy and docile in some parts and when he does become loud and bombastic, it doesn't come off as being overly obnoxious.

Reilly was my favorite in the film, though. His antics had me laughing out loud at most parts and his domineering behavior towards Ferrell's character shows off his comic timing very well.

The movie is geared for those who prefer adult humor and 90 minutes to kill. "Step Brothers" may not be in the comedy Hall of Fame with the likes of "Anchorman" or "Caddyshack", but it should provide a few big laughs, even if the toilet humor sometimes goes on too long. Overall, it's an ideal choice for those with a comedy craving and an empty Friday or Saturday night.