Review of The Brothers Bloom (2008) by Paul R — 29 Jun 2010

Full of colour and quirks and completely charming, The Brothers Bloom is Rian Johnson' second film. It's been 3 years since Brick hit our screens and it has been worth the wait.

We follow two brothers - the greatest con artists in the world - played very well by Adrian Brody and Mark Ruffalo who are very believeable brothers regardless of their obvious physical differences. We are also introduced to the mysterious "Bang Bang" - the aptly named explosive expert and a woman of VERY few words. Together they begin their final con on the extremely rich, lonely and slightly eccentric Penelope. Rachel Weisz plays this to perfection. I've never really thought much of Weisz but this film has changed my opinion.

The story rolls along at a pretty fast pace revealing con after con, not in a particularly clever way but Johnson leaves enough untold to still blind side the audience.

Johnson' style is very evident throughout and if you've seen his 2005 effort Brick you will know what I mean. The Brothers Bloom's colourful quirks reminded me slightly of Wes Anderson's films but not as intelligent. We are also treated to an excellent soundtrack which would no doubt stand up well on it's own.

So if you liked Brick or like Wes Anderson's style - you will probably like this. It's a fun little adventure that is another quality string in Rian Johnson's bow.