Brother (2000) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Brother (2000), directed by Takeshi Kitano, is a Japanese crime drama that explores themes of brotherhood, loyalty, and the struggles of an expatriate underworld. Renowned for its distinctive style and deep emotional resonance, the film is a compelling entry in Kitano’s filmography.
Plot Summary
Brother centers on Yakuza member Yoshitaka “Yoshi” Tetsuo (played by Takeshi Kitano), who is forced to flee Japan after a violent gang war. He relocates to Los Angeles, where he attempts to start a new life and reconnect with his estranged younger brother, Ken (played by Claude Maki), who is involved in the criminal underworld.
- New Beginnings: Yoshi arrives in Los Angeles with hopes of laying low and finding a fresh start. However, his presence and past quickly complicate matters, as he re-engages with his brother and the local criminal scene.
- Conflict and Betrayal: As Yoshi attempts to establish himself in the American criminal world, he faces conflicts with local gangsters, including his own brother’s uneasy alliances and power struggles. The film explores the tension between Yoshi’s desire for a peaceful life and the violent realities of his new surroundings.
- Loyalty and Betrayal: The film delves into the complexities of loyalty, family bonds, and betrayal, ultimately leading to a dramatic and violent conclusion.
The film is noted for its blend of action, drama, and dark humor, showcasing Kitano’s unique directorial style and storytelling approach.
Critical Reception
Brother has received acclaim for its distinctive style and storytelling. Here’s a summary of the critical reception:
Strengths:
- Directorial Vision: Takeshi Kitano’s direction is praised for its unique blend of violence, humor, and emotional depth. His ability to juxtapose brutal action with moments of introspection is a highlight of the film.
- Performance: Kitano’s performance as Yoshi is noted for its subtlety and intensity. The supporting cast, including Claude Maki and other actors, also deliver strong performances.
- Visual Style: The film’s visual style, including its use of color, composition, and cinematic techniques, contributes to its distinctive atmosphere and tone.
Weaknesses:
- Pacing: Some critics have noted that the film’s pacing can be uneven, with certain scenes feeling slower or less engaging compared to others.
- Cultural Specificity: The film’s exploration of Japanese and American criminal worlds might be less accessible to viewers unfamiliar with the cultural and contextual nuances.
Overall, Brother is recognized for its strong directorial approach, compelling performances, and its exploration of complex themes. It remains a notable film in Takeshi Kitano’s body of work.
Themes and Analysis
Brother explores several key themes:
- Brotherhood and Loyalty: The film examines the bonds between brothers and the complexities of loyalty within a criminal context. Yoshi’s relationship with his brother Ken is central to the story, highlighting the challenges of maintaining family connections in a turbulent environment.
- Cultural Clash: The film explores the clash between Japanese and American criminal worlds, reflecting on the difficulties of adapting to a new environment while holding onto one’s cultural identity.
- Violence and Redemption: The narrative delves into the nature of violence and its impact on individuals. Yoshi’s journey is marked by both violent confrontations and moments of introspection, exploring the possibility of redemption amidst chaos.
- Isolation and Belonging: Yoshi’s experience as an expatriate underscores themes of isolation and the search for belonging. His struggle to find a place in the American criminal world reflects broader themes of displacement and identity.
Where to Watch Brother Online
If you’re interested in watching Brother (2000), here are some options:
1. Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: Brother may be available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Check the platform for current availability and subscription details.
- Hulu: The film might also be available on Hulu. Check the platform for availability and current offerings.
2. Rental/Purchase Services
- Amazon Video: You can rent or purchase Brother on Amazon Video. Rental prices typically start around $3.99, with purchase options available for approximately $14.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Google Play offers rental and purchase options for Brother. Rentals generally cost around $3.99, while purchasing the film starts at about $14.99.
- Apple iTunes: Brother is available for rental or purchase on Apple iTunes. Rentals usually cost about $3.99, and purchasing the film generally costs $14.99.
- Vudu: Vudu provides rental and purchase options for Brother. Rental prices are similar to other platforms, starting around $3.99, and purchasing the film generally costs about $14.99.
Conclusion
Brother (2000) is a powerful and evocative film that offers a unique blend of action, drama, and dark humor. Directed by Takeshi Kitano, the film explores themes of brotherhood, loyalty, and cultural clash within the context of the criminal underworld.
With its distinctive style, strong performances, and thought-provoking themes, Brother provides a compelling viewing experience. Available on various streaming and rental platforms, it offers an opportunity to engage with a notable film in Kitano’s acclaimed body of work.
