Movie Reviews

‘Bros’ review: Endearing, funny, and uplifting

Well written with strong characters.

October 13, 2022

I have been so looking forward to this new LGBTQ rom com by Billy Eichner. Not only did the ads provide a lot of necessary LGBTQ representation of all types but Bros also looked really well put together. I can confirm that my assumptions were very true! This is quite an achievement by Eichner. The script he wrote here provides us with plenty of genuine laughter and also a lot of warmth. This is an endearing story that keeps enough of the classic romantic comedy formula for it to be sweet and enjoyable but never goes overboard with the mushy stuff. A nice balance is struck.

'Bros' review: Endearing, funny, and uplifting

The script lays such a nice foundation for this love story and Eichner makes certain to not only craft an investing romance but also to properly develop our two leading men. The chemistry between these two guys is electric. They have such a cute playful relationship. They take digs at one another and tease and make jokes. There’s a delightful energy surrounding their connection.

They also have really hot sexual chemistry and that is something the film doesn’t shy away from portraying. That portrayal of adventurous free sex is something I appreciated too. Bros isn’t wall to wall sex or anything but it does get pretty steamy in some parts and it’s either done as a way to further cement the connection between these two men or as a way to get some laughs. I’m glad they didn’t shy away from both the passionate sex and the comical sex scenes. Both have their place in this story and none of it feels forced.

The script provides some really well written dialogue for them; as a result, we become a lot more invested in their relationship due to the conversations these characters share. And honestly, because of the way this is set up and written, I think even folks who don’t normally enjoy romantic comedies will find enjoyment in this.

In addition to a multifaceted script that satisfies, a film of course also needs capable actors that fit their roles. Bros has that in both Billy Eichner and Luke Macfarlane. Eichner is obviously very talented and he proves that here with his impressive performance.

What’s interesting and something I wasn’t expecting is that I actually found Macfarlane’s performance to be a little more enjoyable. Macfarlane does such a wonderful job in this and honestly I myself was in love with his character by the end. I mean, yes, he is absolutely gorgeous and has a near perfect body but the personality and sheer good heartedness that he is able to portray is impressive.

I think he’s almost certain to get a decent amount of work from this. The cast as a whole does a nice job although these two leading men are really the only ones who leave a lasting impression.

I do have to praise one very minor cast member though. Debra Messing has a cameo in this that is actually really funny and enjoyable. I also want to applaud some of the more serious commentary on LGBTQ history. I like that amongst all the bawdy comedy and sexiness, there’s also a place for the recognition of heroes that made the way for so many of us. Eichner makes sure to include some of that and as a result it provides a nice balance of the funny, sweet, and serious.

Bros doesn’t have any glaring negatives associated with it. This isn’t the years best film but it is well written and very well performed. Give this one a watch!