The Aftermath of Childhood Problems
Warrior does not show the actual events of Tommy (Tom Hardy) and Brendan (Joel Edgerton) in their childhood. This movie instead shows the late effects of the brothers and their father, Paddy (Nick Nolte). During the childhood, Paddy was a drunk and did not show compassion for his sons. The only reason Tommy comes back to Paddy's life is so they can train for a mixed-martial-arts tournament. Paddy tries to open up to Tommy, but receives nothing in return. Tommy has no interest in trying to re-connect with Paddy. According to Guerrero, "Power struggles can lead to a period of storm and stress characterized by emotional distance between parents and children and increased conflict." Throughout the movie, Tommy and Paddy have a laissez-faire relationship. They do not bond well until very late into the movie.
Separations within the Conlon Family
Tommy and Brendan only see each other twice in the whole movie. One of those times is the video below. Tommy reveals that when Brendan fell in love with Tess (Jennifer Morrison) he never talked to Tommy, Paddy, or their mother (who died before the movie). Brendan took the process of separation and individuation. Separation and individuation is a transition period in which teens distance themselves from their family and develop their own identity. When Brendan found Tess, he completely distanced himself away from Tommy and his family. Brendan was not able to even say goodbye to his mother when she passed. According to Hill and Holmbeck, "the process of separation and individuation does not preclude close relationships between parents and children." Even though Brendan forgave Paddy and Tommy, Tommy does not forgive Brendan. In the clip below Tommy does not even acknowledge Brendan as his brother.
*For more information, see the "notes" page