'Three Billboards Outside Ebbing Missouri' - Review

Released: 12th January 2018.
Directed By: Martin McDonagh.

After watching the trailer for this film, I really didn't know what to expect, in terms of drama and excitement the trailer didn't reveal much, but to be honest I was pleasantly surprised by this film. Obviously the critical acclaim and award nominations that this film has received spiked my interest and that's why I chose to go (just to see what all the fuss was about!). But yes, massively impressed by this films dark comedy and captivating story and characters. 

The audience follows Mildred Hayes (played by Frances McDormand) as she takes drastic action after the Police Department neglected her daughters murder case from seven months prior. Worn down by the tragic loss, Mildred pays for three billboards to be commissioned just outside of Ebbing Town which state 1. 'Raped whilst dying' 2. 'And still no arrests?' 3. 'How come Chief Willoughby?'. Making a blunt statement the billboards cause controversy in the town and sets off a chain of events resulting from Mildred's unresolved loss. 

Woody Harrelson, who plays Chief Willoughby, gives an incredible performance, both sarcastic as well as moving. The troubled character ends up taking his own life for medical reasons, and this heavily impacts the small towns residents, most of them turning their blame to Mildred and her billboards. For me, the best character arc comes from Sam Rockwell's performance of the arrogant racist deputy Dixon, who starts by terrorising the town inflicting fear in his usually drunken state, however after Willoughby's death Dixon is taken off the force and as he tries to prove himself as a 'good cop' the performance given by Rockwell receives sympathy from the audience and he ends up as a genuinely likeable character. 

Frances McDormand definitely deserves all the praise she has received for her role in this film. Convincing, comical and deranged, McDormand constantly inflicts the audience with a whole spectrum of both raw emotions and a tough exterior. A thoroughly moving performance is given and Mildred's odd family dynamic with her teenage son, and separated from her husband, Mildred copes with her daughters death and new found attention from the billboards, with sass and fierce attitude. 

The overall cinematography and score from the film is subtle yet pleasing. Nothing noticeably amazing about it, but for a film that focusses heavily on the dialogue and story, does it matter? The scriptwriting should be massively applauded, clever and comedic writing relieves the tension bought by the serious situation and actions involved. 

Overall a very well written, excellently performed film. Nicely put together and well rounded on all fronts. Slightly disappointing ending with no real resolve, but definite character development and I still really enjoyed it. Recommended to those who enjoy a film with captivating hefty dialogue. 

Until next time, 

Charlotte