Travis Lytle’s review published on Letterboxd:
An energetic action film with a touch of heart, John Singleton's "Four Brothers" is a surprisingly potent piece of work. Engaging from the outset, the story of four adopted brothers who set out avenge the death of their mother moves quickly and has plenty of robust. It is a well-cast, well-constructed action effort.
Starring Mark Wahlberg, Andre Benjamin, Tyrese Gibson, and Garrett Hedlund as four young men brought together under the roof of their patient and generous adopted mother, the film follows the men as they come together once again after their mother is gunned down during a robbery. Uncovering the corruption and criminal behavior that led to their mother's demise, the four take on Detroit's underbelly in fits of fists and gunplay.
Singleton uses the narrative, with its themes of vengeance and family, and its characters to drive the film's action. Set-pieces and stunts are never empty but are exhilarating and important to the plot. Singleton's cast is well-chosen, and his characters are suitably layered. The production bears a lived-in look and boasts notes of visual signature that make certain scenes memorable.
Elevated by its emotional side and its ideally cast characters, "Four Brothers" refuses to be a typical action film. Instead, Singelton's film is equally warm and exciting. It is swift and teeth-rattling, but it possesses a sensitive streak that gives its story and thrills an added resonance.