Page 22 THE VILLADOM TIMES II & IV • December 16, 2009 ‘Brothers’ focuses on the effect of wartime by Dennis Seuling “Brothers” is a movie about survivors of combat and the toll their experiences take as they attempt to return to civilian life. Other films have dealt with this theme, most State Line 375 State Highway 17 North, Mahwah Open 24 Hours, 7 Days Join Us For Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner The Best Got Better! Diner - Restaurant 201-529-3353 The lives of Sam (Tobey Maguire, left) and Tommy (Jake Gyllenhaal) are affected by war in ‘Brothers.’ Now Serving Cocktails, Espresso & Cappuccino $ 00 On $10.00 and over. With this coupon only. One Coupon per table. 5:00 to 9:00 pm only. Off 1 $ 00 VT On $20.00 and over. With this coupon only. One Coupon per table. 5:00 to 9:00 pm only. Off 2 Fine Dining ~ Private Parties ~ Banquets ~ Catering ���������������� New Year’s Eve Dinner Dance Special Ala Carte Menu Music by Popular Disco VT Starts 5pm • Call for reservations ��������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������� ���������������������� notably “Coming Home” and “Stop-Loss,” but none has provided such a raw portrait of how combat veterans are haunted by what they have experienced. Captain Sam Cahill (Tobey Maguire) is married to Grace (Natalie Portman) and is the father of two young girls. On the eve of his deployment to Afghanistan, his brother Tommy (Jake Gyllenhaal) is released from prison, where he has served time for armed robbery. Their father (Sam Shepard) does not attempt to hide his pride in Sam and disappointment in Tommy. Director Jim Sheridan switches back and forth between Sam’s time in the mountains of Afghanistan and Grace’s efforts to stay strong and raise her children. One day, two Marines show up at Grace’s door to inform her that Sam has been killed in action. At this point, the story concentrates on how Tommy attempts to be a consolation to Grace and the girls. Along with some pals, he renovates their kitchen, which Sam was planning to do when he returned. Grace at first resists Tommy’s efforts to help, but eventually softens and welcomes his presence and the joy he gets spending time with his nieces. “Brothers” is a fine showcase for Maguire, who has never tackled a role that demanded so much, emotionally. Many of his scenes require him to retain a calm demeanor while inwardly he is severely damaged. It’s easy to like Sam, admire his patriotism and love for his family, and sympathize with him for what he must endure to survive. Director Sheridan does not spare viewers from the torture, both physical and psychological, to which the Taliban subject Sam. His buzz cut hair and firm body give Sam the look of a tough Marine, but when he frolics with his kids, he is just like any dad: silly and playful. The contrast (continued on Crossword page) ��������� ������� ���������� �������� ��������������������������������������������� 12-16-09 janine StephansChalet2x2(12-16-09) 2 x 2” Sunday & Monday NFL Ticket on Direct TV HAPPY HOUR ������ ������������ �������������������������� ������������ ���������� Football Menu & Bar Specials Regular Menu also available ������������������������������������ ����������������������� ������������������������� ����������������������� ���������� ���������� LIVE BAND ������������������������ ��������������������������� ������� �������������� �������������� ��������������������� ���������������� ������������������������ ����������� ��������������������������� �������������� ����������������� � �� �������������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������ 12-9-09 Ester/Janine