Synopsis: Two lifelong friends find themselves at an impasse when one abruptly ends their relationship, with alarming consequences for both of them.
Director: Martin McDonagh
Stars: Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson, Kerry Condom, Barry Keoghan
Martin McDonagh has been nominated for four Academy Awards. He was won once and two of those nominations were for screenwriting. If he isn’t nominated for his brilliant script here it will be a crime of epic proportions.
The Banshees of Inisherin is his latest film and, in my opinion, reminds everyone what a brilliant writer he is. The film, which takes place in Ireland, centers around two friends, Padraic (Colin Farrell) and Colm (Brendan Gleeson). They have been friends for years but one day Colm decides he wants absolutely nothing to do with Padraic. Padraic is trying to understand this and needs an explanation. What did he say? What did he do? It even gets to the point that Colm will take drastic measures if his requests aren’t met.
There is so much to unpack here. Let’s start with the cinematography. Ben Davis has shot a beautiful film. I suspect the next time I go to England to cheer on Manchester City I will detour to Ireland just to soak up the beautiful scenery that is on full display in this film.
This film is also a love letter to that culture as I found myself longing to go to a pub. This is where the genius of the script comes in because in addition to a compelling story, I just loved listening to these characters speak to each other. The wit, the sarcasm, the sincerity, I found it all very authentic.
McDonagh fully captures the essence of the location the film is taking place in.
In addition to that these are great performances. This threesome of Farrell, Gleeson and McDonagh have collaborated before, (In Bruges) and like the proverbial fine wine, this team has gotten better.
There is a lot to like about this film including a subtle but enjoyable performance by Kerry Condon as Farrell’s sister Siobhan.
Barry Keoghan, who just blends into every role he is given, is also terrific in this film.
The Banshees of Inisherin is unique, very entertaining and quirky. And it’s one to put on your list.
Grade: B+
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