Watch Brothers of the Night

Brothers of the Night is a Bulgarian-Austrian drama film released in 2016, directed by Patric Chiha. It revolves around the lives of young male prostitutes who work in the red-light district of Vienna, Austria. The film follows the story of three Bulgarian men, Stefan, Yonko, and Asen, who left their homeland to make a better life in Vienna. The trio now works as prostitutes, catering to the desires of older men who seek their company. They are part of a larger group of Eastern European prostitutes who work in the streets and bars of Vienna. The film captures their lives, hopes, and dreams, exploring the relationships between the group members and their clients.

Stefan, Yonko, and Asen are more than mere sex workers; they are close friends and confidants. The film shows the camaraderie they share, the strong bond that ties them together. It is evident that they are a family, and their bond is far more profound than that of their clients. Despite the hardships they face, the men find ways to laugh, dance, and enjoy their lives together.

The film reveals the stark reality of the men who are forced to sell their bodies due to a lack of other opportunities. They come from impoverished backgrounds and have limited education, making it challenging to find alternate employment. This leads them to prostitution, where they face uncertainty and danger at every turn. They live a dual existence, carrying the weight of their profession and their private lives.

The director, Patric Chiha, presents the story in a unique way. The film is shot almost entirely at night, giving it a dark, moody tone that reflects the lives of the protagonists. The focus is on the atmosphere, the mood, and the visuals, rather than dialogue-driven scenes. The film communicates their message through visual metaphors and soundscapes, creating a sensory-heavy viewing experience. It is almost like watching a dance performance rather than a drama movie.

One of the strong points of the film is its portrayal of the characters. The actors who play the three protagonists deliver stunning performances, highlighting the vulnerability, pain, and resilience of their characters. Despite the harshness of their lives, they maintain their dignity and fight to survive. The film delves deep into the emotional world of the men, their hopes and dreams, fears and insecurities.

The director does not shy away from portraying the brutality that pervades the lives of the characters. The men face abuses from their clients, as well as violence from the police and other street gangs. The film shows how they handle these situations and how they rely on each other for support. The juxtaposition of tenderness and violence creates a powerful impact on the viewer.

Brothers of the Night is a beautiful yet brutal exploration of male prostitution in Vienna. It is a story of brotherhood, resilience, and the will to survive. With stunning visuals and nuanced performances, the film is a thought-provoking work of art. It is a must-watch for those who wish to experience the dark underbelly of society through the eyes of those living on its edges.