Synopsis: Two lifelong friends find themselves at an impasse when one abruptly ends their relationship, with alarming consequences for both.
Director: Martin McDonagh
Stars: Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson, Kerry Condom, Barry Keoghan
Multi-award-winning Martin McDonagh has been nominated for four Academy Awards; 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 that reminds everyone what a brilliant writer McDonagh is. The film takes place on a remote island off the Irish coast and centres around two friends, Pádraic (Colin Farrell) and Colm (Brendan Gleeson).
One day Colm decides he wants absolutely nothing to do with his lifelong friend. Padraic tries to understand why. He needs an explanation—What did he say? What did he do? Colm will take drastic measures if his request isn’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 to soak up the beautiful scenery on full display in this film.
The Banshees of Inisherin is also a love letter to Irish culture; 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 the characters conversing with each other. The wit, the sarcasm, and the sincerity are all very authentic. McDonagh fully captures the essence of the film’s location.
In addition, these are great performances. The threesome of Farrell, Gleeson, and McDonagh have collaborated before (In Bruges, 2008), and like the proverbial fine wine, this team has improved with age.
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 blends into every role he is given, is also terrific in this film.
The Banshees of Inisherin is unique, very entertaining, and quirky. It’s one to put on your list.
Grade: B+
Watch the movie trailer:
