Renato (Ian Inigo) was having the time of his life growing up in Mexico in the mid-90s in Half Brothers. He had a great relationship with his father Flavio (Juan Pablo Espinosa) – a jokester who loved riddles. The two of them did everything together, including having their own special whistle. They both had an affinity for airplanes and flying the remote-control airplane across the town was a common occurrence. Unfortunately, economic turmoil hit their town and Flavio had to go to the United States to earn money for the family. That was 26 years ago, and the last time Renato saw his father.
Renato (Luis Gerardo Mendez) has grown up to be a successful aviation executive. He took his love of airplanes and turned it into a career. That playful, joyous, young boy is long gone though. Renato has turned into an unfriendly and unlikeable jackass. He is days away from marrying Pamela (Pia Watson) who has a son of her own named Emilio (Mike A. Salazar). Pamela wants Renato to have a relationship with Emilio, but Renato can’t seem to let down his walls. Then Katherine (Ashley Poole) calls and everything changes.
Music plays a big role in Half Brothers and Director Luke Greenfield highlights it throughout the film. Greenfield goes as far as using music to not only frame a shot but be the central joke within scenes. On top of the music, he inserts just enough interesting shots and camera angles to keep things fresh. Greenfield uses flashbacks to further the narrative and provide a glimpse of Flavio’s journey. The main actors in the film give solid performances. From Mendez’s uptight Renato to Del Rio’s aloof Asher, all are believable, and their chemistry is strong. Half Brothers reminded me of a poor man’s mashup of The Hangover and Due Date. While Half Brothers may not be revolutionary, it is very much an enjoyable watch and perfect for the holiday season.