Brothers McMullen, The MPAA Rating: R Entertainment: +2 1/2 Content: -2

The three McMullen brothers are shocked when soon after their father's funeral their mother returns to Ireland to marry the man she really loves. She tells Barry (Edward Burns) not to repeat her mistake of marrying the wrong person. Five years later, struggling writer Barry asks to move in with older brother Jack (Jack Mulcahy) and his wife Molly (Connie Britton). Younger brother Patrick (Mike McGlone) also moves in when his strong Catholic beliefs influence him to quit living in sin with Susan (Shari Albert). Now living under one roof, the brothers exchange insults, share their feelings on love and life, and try to come to grips with their Catholic upbringing. Their mother's advice has made them all insecure about their choices for wives. A unique comedy, THE BROTHERS MCMULLEN will generate some hearty laughs from those who can identify with the brothers' efforts to reconcile their feelings with their religious beliefs. It is a humorous slice of real life for adults.

Edward Burns wrote, produced and acted in this low-budget movie about making choices. Unfortunately, some of the brothers' choices are in direct opposition to their religious background. Patrick's Jewish girl friend announces she is pregnant; married Jack gives in to temptation by having an adulterous affair; and Barry steers clear of any serious relationship. They pour out advice to each other as they pour out beers. Catholic beliefs are both a source of character and humor as the brothers discuss sin, abortion, sex, love and fear of commitment. Unfortunately, the dialogue is peppered heavily with obscenities and profanities. Although sex is implied between both Patrick and Susan and Jack and his lover, no nudity is shown. Surprisingly, it is the women who appear sexually aggressive. Ann seems to have no scruples about having sex with a married man, and Susan encourages Patrick to live with her before marriage. Jack shows deep remorse for his unfaithfulness and begs his wife for forgiveness. Abortion is treated lightly, as is a single couple living together. These plus uncalled for obscenities and profanities earn an unacceptable rating for THE BROTHERS MCMULLEN.

Preview Reviewer: Paul Bicking
Distributor: 20th Century Fox Film Corp., 10201 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036