Dr. Brinks & Dr. Brinks

Dr. Brinks & Dr. Brinks is a 2017 indie drama-comedy film, focused on the unpredictable dynamics of grief, family secrets, and the journey of self-discovery. The film stars Kristin Slaysman and Scott Rodgers, with admirable support from Ashley Rae Spillers, delivering performances that strike the perfect balance between dramatic intensity and subtle humor.

The movie centers around the lives of estranged siblings Markus and Ashley Brinks, played impressively by Scott Rodgers and Kristin Slaysman. Upon the unexpected death of their globe-trotting parents, both of whom were renowned humanitarian doctors, the siblings are catapulted from their comfortable, distant lives back into each other's orbits. They find themselves back at their parent's derelict home, left to deal with the aftermath of their parents' demise and the surprising terms of their will.

Scott Rodgers effortlessly portrays the character of Markus, a lovable oaf who has been adrift in life, failing at careers and relationships and nursing a troubled relationship with alcohol. Despite his many shortcomings, Markus is imbued with a naively optimistic outlook on life. On the other hand, Kristin Slaysman’s portrayal of the high powered, fiercely independent and ambitious Ashley is striking. Her character is deeply affected by the expectations that come with being a Brinks and the dynamics of her relationship with her brother. The clash between the two characters, each flawed and trying to navigate their way, forms the crux of the film.

They are joined by a quirky yet lovable cast of characters that add additional layers to the storyline. It is Ashley Rae Spillers who particularly shines as the maternal live-in nurse, Nancy, who took care of their parents and stayed on even after their death. Her character becomes a presence that binds the siblings, pushing them to face their shared past, unearth their grievances, and reconcile with the legacy of their parents.

The film offers a keen exploration of the complexities of sibling relationships, personal insecurities, and the effect parental expectations can have on adult children. The awkward reunions, sarcastic quips, shared regrets, and the inevitable airing of long-held grievances make the narrative both relatable and emotionally resonant. Through their shared journey, the siblings learn to navigate their grief, unresolved tensions, and the secret life their parents lived. It forces them to question their own life choices, ambitions and what they truly consider important.

Equally impressive is the film's strong visual narrative, supported by a modest yet meticulously detailed setting. The dimly lit rooms of the parental home hold a ghostly presence, alluding not just to their parents' death, but to the lingering memories, unspoken words, and hidden truths that begin to unfold. The cinematography captures both the charm and the melancholy awakening within the mundane and ordinary, resulting in numerous poignant scenes.

The film also boasts of a curiously engaging script by Josh Crockett who doubles as the director. The chemistry between the actors, coupled with sharp writing and dynamically staged scenes, creates a brilliant on-screen spectacle. Moments of tension are diffused with a sprinkling of understated humor, making even dramatic scenes incredibly watchable. The overall tone veers between comedy-drama, evident in every awkward encounter, tumultuous argument, tearful revelation, or silent moment of understanding.

Dr. Brinks & Dr. Brinks showcases the delicate balance between grief and merriment, estrangement and bonds, enmity and love, and the struggle for self-identity. The movie takes a deep dive into the theme of complex family dynamics, stretching beyond the surface level, and unraveling the core of what holds a family together or drives them apart. It cleverly juggles multiple themes without losing track of its narrative objectives, all while maintaining a steady intent to tickle the funny bone.

While it doesn't follow the stereotypical path of similar genre films, Dr. Brinks & Dr. Brinks is a touchingly relatable and witty examination of family, legacy, sibling relationships, and the pursuit of personal dreams. Both humorous and poignant, it is well worth watching for its nuanced characters, intricate plot developments, and the profound insights it offers into the messiness of human relationships.