Brennan (Ferrell) and Dale (Reilly) are disturbingly immature adults who become step brothers when Brennan's mom (Mary Steenburgen) and Dale's dad (Richard Jenkins) marry.  Using essentially the same premise and just a different approach, "Step Brothers" could just as easily be a disturbing Todd Solondz film as it is a broad summer comedy.  If Ferrell and Reilly weren't so charming, this film could easily be too creepy or too pathetic to be funny.  But they're masters at their craft.  What's disappointing is that we've seen all their tricks.  And unlike Ferrell and co-writer/director Adam McKay's previous efforts, "Anchorman" and "Talladega Nights", there are no distinct characters with maybe the exception of Brennan's brother Derek (Adam Scott) and his wife Alice (Kathryn Hahn).

I found myself wanting to see a film about Derek and Alice more than the socially retarded Brennan and Dale.  Adam Scott plays the epitome of white, male, upper-middle-class douchebaggery to perfection and Hahn is a comic gem that's clearly been hidden for far too long.  Other supporting players including Jenkins and Rob Riggle are equally strong I can still quote you their memorable lines a week after seeing the film.  I remember laughing at Ferrell and Reilly's riffing but I can't tell you one memorable line from either lead.  There is no, "Milk was a bad choice,"

If you haven't grown tired of Ferrell's antics, then "Step Brothers" will have you laughing steadily throughout but it's mostly reflex laughter.  These guys are just naturally funny but it seems more like they're doing it for themselves rather than coming up with some memorable jokes and set-ups.  It's enjoyable but the reason you should see the film isn't for the title characters.  It's for comedians who have crafted absurd characters you haven't seen before and won't forget once you leave the theatre.

(B minus)