Brothers
By Melissa Camacho,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Somewhat salty sitcom mixes sibling rivalry, brotherly love.
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What's the Story?
In BROTHERS, adult siblings again find themselves living under their parents' roof. Retired and secretly broke, former NFL player Mike Trainor (Michael Strahan) returns to Houston to help his father (Carl Weathers) recover from a stroke. Mike's return rekindles his troubled relationship with his wheelchair-bound brother, Chill (played by Daryl Chill Mitchell), who refuses to accept the fact that his sports-themed restaurant is going under. While the brothers bicker over issues from their past, their mother, Adele (CCH Pounder), pushes them to help each other rebuild their lives. Gradually the two discover that while they may not always get along, they're definitely there for each other.
Is It Any Good?
Brothers is full of all the typical silly jokes and gags you'd expect to see in a half-hour sitcom. But it also has lots of positive messages about family. While much of the show's humor centers on the adult sibling rivalry between the brothers, their arguing is never strong enough to suggest that they don'tlove each other. And even though Chill's accident and paralysis don't stop him from living a full life, his wheelchair serves as a constant reminder of how the Trainors pulled together to get through some very difficult times.
Despite the show's underlying positive themes, its salty language and frequent sexual innuendo make it an iffy choice for younger viewers. But for teens and adults, watching may help underscore the importance of having -- and maintaining -- close family ties.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how people with disabilities are typically portrayed in the media. Is it uncommon to see people with disabilities on sitcoms? If so, why do you think that is?
Teens: What do you think it would be like to move back into your parents' home as an adult? What would some of the benefits and drawbacks be? Would rules or chores be in order?
TV Details
- Premiere date: September 25, 2009
- Cast: CCH Pounder , Daryl Chill Mitchell , Michael Strahan
- Network: Fox
- Genre: Comedy
- Topics: Brothers and Sisters
- TV rating: TV-14
- Last updated: February 24, 2022
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