The story was somewhat interesting. But, the plot lacked a deeper exploration of one of the characters, the one played by Emily Mortimer. The only thing we know about her is that she is an single English journalist living in Russia. David Arquette seemed lost as to what to do with his character. Nelson was pretty good and the chemistry between Nelson and Mortimer was interesting.

Slow at first, the movie picked up its pace when the brothers, Josh and Jake, arrived in Russia. But, this is where the plot seemed to get a bit lost. With a inconclusive and unsatisfying resolution, the movie failed to keep me interested in Josh all that much, and failed to make me understand a bit more about Jake.

You will actually get to see an interesting slice of life in this movie. While the movie itself may be okay, the performances are what really stand out. Time Blake Nelson's performance is worth the price of admission as the lovable loser who...., well..., that would be telling.

When their mother dies, two brother set out to find a "wife" who will take care of the both of them. They spend their savings on a marriage "tour" of Eastern Europe.

What you may not know is that the movie was actually supported by a real marriage agency, and many of their fellow tourists are actual visitors in search of a foreign bride.

It is a classic fish out of water tale, that while a bit contrived, nevertheless will pull you into their story.

Four Stars.

Cheers!

The previous reviews nicely give a synopsis of the plot, so I won't repeat what has been written. Like a couple of other reviewers, I, too, am a fan of the talented British actress Emily Mortimer (DEAR FRANKIE). She brings a natural beauty to the role of the Documentarian that is refreshing in its warmth and sincerity. She obviously loves her job and the spectacular city of Saint Petersburg. I wish I could visit St. Petersurg someday, though there many other cities around the world that I'd like to see first. It truly is beautiful, even in winter when 2 BROTHERS & A BRIDE was filmed. As far as it being a comedy goes, it is definitely an understated one. The brothers Jake and Josh Adams (Tim Blake Nelson and David Arquette) play it down as two Middle-America yokels in search of a wife to replace their deceased mother. They only want a woman to cook and wash and clean house for them...just for two years until she is eligible to get a Green Card. The story revolves around them finding the right girl as quickly as possible before they run out of time and money (the tour is only for two weeks and they each have $4,000 to spend during that time). While the ending is somewhat predictable, the journey there is entertaining. I recommend this movie to anyone who wants to enjoy a comedy for adults.

I caught this small picture under the title "A Foreign Affair" because I tend to like Emily Mortimer and her film choices. Well, let me tell you something, the DVD title "2 Brothers and a Bride" along with the generic cover picture with a somewhat inappropriately highlighted Mortimer do nothing to represent the real film. Hoping, I suppose, to cash in on a more commercial and conventional romantic comedy hook, they actually do a disservice to the more unique story that is told here. So expecting a silly David Arquette comedy, what I got instead was a fairly effective look at familial loyalty, a subtle romance, and a pretty incisive look at the "mail-order bride" trade. While not a great picture, it is far better than I bargained for or than the DVD packaging would have led me to believe.

Two brothers, David Arquette and Tim Blake Nelson, are eeking out a meager existence on their family farm. Having their mother to tend for most of the household chores, things fall into disarray upon her death. Both are already emotionally and socially stunted from an isolated lifestyle, but become desparate to find someone to help around the house. Nelson stumbles across an Internet site showcasing potential brides in Russia. So the two sign up for a trip which will, hopefully, bring a new woman into their life. Seeking a business arrangement only, they plan a meticulous selection process--but not all goes smoothly. Arquette, suddenly free and blossoming, starts to experience the joys to be had in the world of women. Meanwhile, Nelson doggedly pursues a practical match while being filmed by a British documentarian, played by Mortimer.

The film is actually more serious than one might expect. While there are definitely laughs to be had, the depiction of the "marriage business" is both informative and believable. It's not a topic that is usually covered in much detail, so this close-up look seemed fresh. Nelson and Arquette interact well, and each character is developed in detail and evolves in a realistic way. Mortimer does solid work, as always--but this is mostly about the boys. Ultimately, things wrap up rather too conveniently for my taste--but I did enjoy the ride.

"2 Brothers and a Bride" showcases nice performances and an interesting setting. Much smarter than it's title, it was a pleasant surprise. I'd rate it at about 3 1/2 stars for some unevenness and the tidy and pat ending, but I'm rounding up to encourage people to give this little film a look. KGHarris, 12/06.

Having visited St. Petersburg, Russia a year ago, I could not pass up the chance to watch this movie. I must say, it was nicely done. I can relate to the obnoxious, business like brother...who happily did not go with me on my trip. I was more like the care-free younger brother, but not quite so care-free as the character protrayed. The scenery was awesome...all the fantastic architecture of those magnificent buildings and sculptures were in the movie...although I wish there were more because the city is full of beauty. And this goes for the women as well!! I mainly went to see the city...but I also went there as a very confirmed bachlor to meet a lady that I planned would be my travel companion. What I didn't expect was to really fall in love :-). The BIG reason why I confirmed myself to be a life time bacholar was my exposure to American women...as if explained in the additional extras on the DVD...but the Russian lady that I met there and the culture of her up-bringing quickly changed my way of thinking!! One thing I should add though. The movie gave the impression that you can take her home with you when you go back to the states yourself. Such is not the case. It takes paperwork and a lot of patience to get her here...expect at least 8 months, but it is more like a year. It is time consuming to get her a US visa. But she was worth the wait for me and if you want a life long partner and lover, the wait is worthwhile. Another word of caution: Prepare yourself to fall in love with Russia...the people are very nice and I know of a lot of Americans who go there quite often to visit and re-visit...some even live there now.