Don't Be A D*ck About It

Don't Be A D*ck About It is a highly acclaimed documentary film directed by Ben Mullinkosson. Released in 2018, it's a heartwarming and insightful look into the everyday lives of the Mullins brothers, Peter and Matthew. Neither are actors in the traditional sense; instead, they play out their lives, and their unique nature and family bond effortlessly come alive on screen.

Set in the suburban environment of Montgomery County, Maryland, the film provides an intimate look at the brotherly duo as they navigate life on their own terms, each grappling with individual quirks yet showcasing a remarkably normal and relatable sibling relationship. The brothers share a relationship marked by banter and camaraderie coupled with bouts of bickering, reflecting a true slice of life, which makes the film so compelling to watch.

Peter Mullins has a curious obsession with fear. He is frightful of dogs and is shown undertaking a journey to overcome this fear. Peter's childlike wonder and brutal honesty make his performance enjoyable and genuine. He goes on dog walks to challenge himself and overcome his fear. The process opens up various hilarious yet thought-provoking situations as the audience sees Peter look his fear in the eye, a universal predicament relatable to anyone who has ever had to deal with overcoming fears in their lives.

His younger brother, Matthew, on the other hand, has a contrasting obsession. He loves reality television, specifically, the reality TV show Survivor. The show's influence is so immense that he infuses elements of the show in his everyday reality, turning mundane errands into Survivor-inspired challenges.

Matthew, diagnosed with autism, showcases his unique perspective on life with his infectious enthusiasm and unconventional understanding of his world. At times, he pushes the patience of his family to the edge with his Survivor obsession, but the depth of their familial love makes them endure, creating a dynamic that is at once charming and relatable.

Don't Be A D*ck About It stands out with its nuanced portrayal of how the brothers individually view the world around them. Despite their distinctly unique personalities and obsessions, they still remain a part of a cohesive whole, a testament to the strength of their bond and the patience and love their family extends towards them. The movie stands as a testament to the universal truth that regardless of your quirks or obsessions, there’s always unconditional love and acceptance in the family.

The film's title derives from a common phrase used among the Mullins family, which perfectly encapsulates the essence of the film - a light-hearted yet insightful glimpse at embracing individual quirks with understanding and acceptance.

Director Ben Mullinkosson, who had been friends with the Mullins family for a long time, uses his personal bond to navigate the narrative with empathy and intimacy that adds a layer of depth to the film. The interaction between the brothers and their family forms the heart of the film, which resonates deeply with the audience as these moments exude love, understanding, and unspoken acceptance.

Cinematography strikes a perfect balance between a manicured narrative and raw authenticity. The natural surroundings of Maryland suburbs are captured effectively, reinforcing the film’s slice-of-life narrative. Editing is crisp, reflecting the film’s tight narrative vision.

With a runtime of a little over an hour, the film is a breezy yet deeply moving exploration of the everyday lives of two brothers. It's an insightful, touching, and often humorous ride that doesn’t shy away from facing the unique realities of life with raw honesty.

In sum, Don’t Be A D*ck About It is an incredibly well-executed documentary that combines humor, reality, and a profound look at human life and relationships. It is a film that not only allows us to laugh at the brother's quirks and idiosyncrasies, but also invites us to understand and empathize with them. The Mullins brothers become the heroes of their journey, and we, as viewers, are privileged to accompany them on this ride.