A clip from the comedy film Step Brothers has recently gone viral on TikTok, resonating with viewers amid ongoing discussions regarding economic policies under former President Donald Trump. The short comedy oddly named “As Trump Destroys The Economy…” follows the over-the-top response of two brothers, Brennan & Dale. As performed by Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly, this unlikely duo has a hard time adjusting to their parents’ upcoming divorce.
Step Brothers is available to stream on Netflix now. In that scene, which is among the film’s most memorable, Brennan and Dale dine with their respective new step-parents (played by Richard Jenkins and Mary Steenburgen). Joining them are Derek, Brennan’s controlling older brother played by Parks and Rec’s Adam Scott, and his sister-in-law, Alice. The meeting soon devolves into a circus. Whether at the diner or at home, Brennan and Dale vocalize their frustration at the absurdity of their family dynamic, leading to hilarious outbursts that capture millions of social media users’ attentions.
The viral clip just got re-upped with fresh juice. It has since come to symbolize the frustrations of many Trump voters regarding the very tariffs that were introduced under his administration. It succeeds in depicting a light-hearted view of the political reaction that has accompanied such needless economic austerity. In this fictional event, here, Dale and Brennan freak out. Exporters are mad as hell. Their theatrical reactions represent the true angst so many feel about tariffs and their damaging effect on the economy.
Among the notable lines from the clip, viewers hear a motherly voice attempting to calm the boys:
“It is not your fault.” – Fox News (the mother)
This reassurance contrasts sharply with the father’s blunt approach, who asserts:
“Let’s cut the shit! It is directly your fault. It is absolutely, 150% your fault!” – The father (an anti-Trump Republican)
Derek, representing a different generational perspective, adds a more cynical view with his remark:
“I gotta say I could have called this one.” – Derek (the Gen X Democrat)
The ability of Step Brothers to resonate in this political climate illustrates how comedy can provide a means of coping with complex issues. The viral nature of this clip showcases how audiences are increasingly turning to humor to process their feelings about political events and economic challenges.
It might seem surprising if you only know this movie as the infamous Step Brothers that’s become popular on Netflix and TikTok. Yet its relevance in today’s discussions is evident. The film is a comedy first and foremost, but it’s an important starting point for conversations about family navigating the storms of society, broader issues at play.
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