A group of adopted siblings return home for their mother’s funeral and revenge against her killer in John Singleton’s latest, FOUR BROTHERS. The Mercer brothers were always known as a tough bunch, but their return to the Motor City will leave an even more distinct mark. Their mother, Evelyn Mercer, was shot dead during an apparent robbery at a local carry-out. They come home to Detroit for their mother’s funeral, but are just as focused on avenging her death.
FOUR BROTHERS is best viewed as a modern-day, urban western. All the pieces are there: a vengeful clan of anti-heroes, a corrupt group of law enforcement officers, a rundown town and a classic man to man showdown. Singleton’s latest doesn’t match the social commentary of previous works BOYZ IN THE HOOD or ROSEWOOD, but it still carries the director’s same intensity and immediacy. He also knows how to capture the essence of his characters surroundings. Utilizing Motown classics by Marvin Gaye, The Temptations and The Four Tops, Singleton not only builds nostalgia for old Detroit, but also brings out camaraderie between the adopted siblings. The performances are lock and step with the picture. Wahlberg, Tyrese and Andre Benjamin turn in rough, but real performances as the Mercer brothers; while Chiwetel Elijofar turns in a menacingly memorable turn as gangster Victor Sweet. For those that don’t mind viewing a violent, vengeful film, FOUR BROTHERS delivers.
Grade: B-
