The Brothers Grimsby (2016) is a British action-comedy film directed by Louis Leterrier and written by Sacha Baron Cohen, Phil Johnston, and Peter Baynham. The film stars Sacha Baron Cohen and Mark Strong in the lead roles, and it blends elements of spy action with crude humor. Here’s a detailed review:

Plot Summary

The film follows Nobby Butcher (Sacha Baron Cohen), a bumbling but good-hearted football hooligan from the fictional town of Grimsby, and his estranged brother, Sebastian (Mark Strong), who is a top MI6 spy. The story kicks off when Nobby discovers that Sebastian is not only alive but is a highly skilled operative. When a mission goes awry and threatens global security, Nobby inadvertently becomes entangled in Sebastian’s high-stakes world of espionage. The film revolves around their comedic misadventures as they attempt to save the world while dealing with their own familial issues.

Key Strengths

1. Sacha Baron Cohen and Mark Strong’s Performances:
   • Sacha Baron Cohen delivers his trademark brand of outrageous and irreverent humor with a flair for physical comedy. His portrayal of Nobby Butcher is both absurd and endearing, showcasing his skill for blending comedy with character-driven moments.
   • Mark Strong brings a contrasting seriousness to the film as Sebastian, balancing the film’s tone with a grounded and compelling performance. The dynamic between Cohen’s and Strong’s characters is central to the film’s comedic and emotional impact.
2. Humor:
   • The film is packed with Sacha Baron Cohen’s signature humor, which includes a mix of slapstick, crude jokes, and satirical elements. For fans of Cohen’s work, such as Borat or Brüno, The Brothers Grimsby offers a familiar comedic style with plenty of outrageous moments.
3. Action Sequences:
   • The film features high-energy action sequences that are well-executed and add a dynamic element to the comedy. The blend of spy thriller elements with comedic antics creates a unique viewing experience.
4. Satire and Social Commentary:
   • The film incorporates satirical commentary on espionage films and societal norms. The absurdity of Nobby’s character and his interactions with the spy world provide a humorous critique of the spy genre and action clichés.

Weaknesses

1. Crude Humor:
   • The film’s humor is often crude and relies heavily on shock value. This approach may not appeal to all audiences and can come across as over-the-top or gratuitous for some viewers.
2. Plot and Pacing:
   • The plot of The Brothers Grimsby is secondary to its comedic and action elements. The storyline can feel disjointed or predictable, with the focus often shifting from one outrageous gag to another. This can affect the film’s overall cohesion and pacing.
3. Character Development:
   • While the film provides comedic moments, character development is limited. Nobby and Sebastian’s relationship is explored primarily through comedic scenarios rather than deep emotional exploration, which may leave some viewers wanting more depth.
4. Mixed Critical Reception:
   • The Brothers Grimsby received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising the film’s humor and performances while others found it lacking in substance and relying too heavily on shock value. The film’s reception indicates that its appeal may be polarizing.

Conclusion

The Brothers Grimsby is a high-energy action-comedy that showcases Sacha Baron Cohen’s distinctive humor and Mark Strong’s dramatic contrast. While the film excels in delivering outrageous comedy and entertaining action sequences, its reliance on crude humor and lack of a strong plot may not appeal to everyone. For those who enjoy Cohen’s brand of comedy and are looking for a blend of espionage satire and physical gags, the film offers a fun and entertaining experience. However, its humor and narrative approach might be off-putting for viewers seeking a more balanced or sophisticated comedy.