Inclusive and hilarious

DAY

It's raw. It is [sometimes] vulgar. Yes, it is a gay romantic comedy. But beyond all that, Bros is without a doubt the funniest movie we've seen this year.  

There was a big stir over Bros, the first major gay romantic comedy to hit theaters last weekend. Granted, characters – and their performers – from the LGBTQ community have had their heyday and pivotal roles in the past, but always on the side of indie studios, and often launched without as much fanfare. 

Does Broscould pave the way for other such offerings? Absolutely. Let's hope that the other major production houses are now listening, because the proof is in: it is possible to make an inclusive (but still mainstream) comedy that is absolutely hilarious. 

Billy Eichner and Luke Macfarlane in a scene from the romantic comedy Bros.

By and for gays

Here we follow Bobby (Billy Eichner, also co-screenwriter), a gay and jaded forty-something from years of one-night stands started through dating apps. 

But everything changes when he meets Aaron (Luke Macfarlane), also a hard-core bachelor, in a bar.

We won't hide it, the target audience of Bros (or Chums, in its French version) is mainly composed of members of the LGBTQ community. We address it directly, borrowing its codes, its vocabulary, its idols and even its clichés. The references may therefore seem tucked away for straight moviegoers, certainly, but never to the point of spoiling their enjoyment. 

Because beyond its themes and language, Bros is first and foremost a frankly hilarious, biting and successful romantic comedy… no matter what label you want to give it. 

Bros ★★★1⁄2

► A film by Nicholas Stoller.

Starring Billy Eichner, Luke Macfarlane, Bowen Yang and TS Madison. On display.