From the moment the trailer dropped on Netflix for "The Brothers Sun", I was so hooked, quickly setting the reminder for when it dropped! The tone carefully curated through the cinematography and edit was surely there! It was fun, lively, and action-packed!
Between the trailer and first pilot, I instantly felt the tender love and care put into this project. Themes of family, brotherhood, and community resonnated with me and were well apprecitated. Another theme I vibed heavy with, was parenthood. The love of a mother runs deep and is unconditional. Mama Sun, played by Michelle Yeoh was a pilar of wisdom, strength, love, and fortitude. Mama Sun's willingness to protect her family and community was unending.
Asian stories have been an intricate part of my life since little. My father was blackbelt, my uncle, a Marine, also into Kung Fu. I remember watching Kung Fu movies and ordering Chinese takeout whenever visiting with my father. Every cut - every movement, fluid, graceful, yet exhilirating! This series, in a way took me back to my childhood.
The writing was like an expected, long-overdue pastry, owed to oneself but slightly more lovely in the mind than upon the palette. I understood the re-introduction of old flame, Alexis into Charles Sun's life but would have liked to see such a move positioned in the second season of the series - yet, do understand why and how the writers selected that idea to be where it was in the timeline of "TBS". It furthered the plot and added to Charles' redeemable qualities. Since we're on the subject of Charles Sun's qualities. Giving him the aptitude and passion for food, specifically baking was a nice touch - a ying to the yang of his violent and destructive streak. And what can I say about Blood Boots? A guardian, protector, a friend and confidant - vibrant! This was such a hearty and robust character! My hats off to the creators of Blood Boots and to actor, Jon Xue Zhang for bringing the character to life. Blood Boots was a well-rounded character that fit snuggly into the fabric of the story. I for sure will be checking out Jon's previous work.
Directed by Byron Wu and Brad Falchuk, starring Michelle Yeoh definitely brought a dynamic element to the series, clearly depcited in the cinematography. Bold, daring camera choices, propelled by creativity and innovation, rooted in culture and personality added to the brilliance of The Brothers Sun. I truly enjoyed the series and am looking forward to season two! Prayer hands that Netflix renews it for another season - I'm pretty confident they will! I am excited to see where the showrunner and writing team take the story and thus lead the viewer. The Brothers Sun is excellent addition to a watchlist, and should absolutely be the next thing in your queue.