Bros

It might provide a long overdue spotlight to characters often relegated to sidekicks or comic relief. But the primary reason Bros works has almost nothing to do with diversity or inclusion.

This romantic comedy is consistently amusing and moderately fresh regardless of the sexual orientation of its protagonists. It’s more concerned with making us laugh than pushing an agenda, promoting playful self-deprecation over ponderous self-importance.

In seeking crossover appeal for material typically reserved for small independent films, the project smartly assumes acceptance without pandering or compromising — it’s both audaciously raunchy and disarmingly sweet.

“I’m 40 years old and I’ve never been in love,” proclaims New York podcaster Bobby (Billy Eichner) to his million listeners. And you can guess where he’s headed from there.

Stuck in a cycle of one-night stands, Bobby is surprised when he falls for shirtless Aaron (Luke Macfarlane) at a nightclub. Despite their initial attraction, neither seems convinced the flirtations will lead to anything serious.

After all, Bobby’s time is consumed with preparing to open the country’s first LGBTQ+ history museum and squabbling with board members over whose representation is being shortchanged.

Through the chaos, however, the sparks with Aaron endure, if only either man can overcome their preconceived notions and fear of commitment to make the relationship last.

Bobby’s combination of crippling insecurities (such as his hirsute, concave chest) and unfiltered judgmental cynicism makes him a difficult target for audience sympathy. His outward know-it-all confidence masks bitterness from intolerance and rejection, both real and perceived.

Still, most of the rapid-fire sight gags and one-liners hit the mark. There are eclectic cameos. Plus, it finds humor and heart in its intimate moments while broadly and incisively exploring masculinity and self-identity in the social-media age.

The sardonic screenplay by Eichner and director Nicholas Stoller (Neighbors) overdoses on sassy quirks and genre cliches as it navigates the exaggerated relationship dynamics endemic to the genre. It sometimes struggles with a difficult balance — celebrating uniqueness without settling for conventional tropes and eye-rolling contrivances that cause the film to fit in rather than stand out.

There’s also a nagging preachiness to the subplot surrounding the museum. But as Bros pokes fun at gay stereotypes — and their deployment in pop culture — by simultaneously indulging and dismissing them, it promotes open-mindedness with a defiant sense of pride.

Rated R, 115 minutes.