Watch Steps

Steps is a 2021 film that tells the story of two estranged brothers, David and Monty, who reunite after years of being apart to take care of their dying mother, Evelyn. The film is directed by Rock Davis and, in addition to the incredible performances by Rob Morgan, Walter Fauntleroy, and Robert G. McKay, has been praised for its powerful storyline and authentic depiction of family dynamics.

The film opens with the brothers returning to their childhood home in Philadelphia, where Evelyn lives alone with the help of a hospice nurse, who is played by Tatiana R. Jones. From the very beginning, it is clear that David and Monty have a complicated relationship, with tensions running high and old resentments bubbling to the surface. This is made even more complicated by the fact that David is a successful lawyer who has distanced himself from his family, while Monty struggles to make ends meet as a carpenter.

As the film unfolds, we see David and Monty navigate the complexities of their relationship, with the help of flashbacks that shed light on their shared history. We see glimpses of their childhood, including a traumatic experience that has left a lasting scar on both of them. We also see how their relationship with their mother has shaped their lives: David feels guilt over not being there for her as she struggled to raise them alone, while Monty resents her for not being able to protect them from their father's abuse.

Despite the challenges they face, David and Monty come together to care for their mother in her final days. They struggle to connect at first, but eventually, they begin to understand and empathize with each other. The film does an excellent job of showing the ups and downs of their relationship, from the raw and painful moments to the moments of tenderness and connection.

Throughout the film, there are moments of levity and humor that help balance the weight of the subject matter. For example, there is a scene where David and Monty argue over what to do with their mother's collection of shoes, each trying to prove that they know her better than the other. There are also heartwarming moments where the brothers come together over a meal or a shared memory.

One of the film's strengths is its exploration of the complexity of familial relationships. David and Monty's dynamic is not a typical one, and the film does an excellent job of showing how their individual experiences have shaped who they are and how they relate to each other. It delves into issues of trauma, forgiveness, and the ties that bind families together, even in the face of difficulty.

The performances in the film are outstanding, with Rob Morgan and Walter Fauntleroy bringing nuance and depth to their roles as the estranged brothers. Morgan, who plays David, captures the character's guardedness and sense of responsibility, while also conveying the inner turmoil he feels as he grapples with the past. Fauntleroy, as Monty, brings a vulnerability and emotional honesty to the role, making us sympathize with his struggles and root for him to connect with his brother.

Overall, Steps is a powerful film that explores the complexity of sibling relationships and how they are shaped by the past. It is a moving portrait of a family coming together in the face of loss and finding solace in each other. With strong performances and a heartfelt story, it is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates honest portrayals of human relationships.

Steps is a 2021 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 58 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.8.