SO far in his film career, Writer/ Director Martin McDonagh has released the hilarious cult classic ‘In Bruges’ and the hugely underrated ‘Seven Psychopaths’ and in only his third feature... he might have just found his masterpiece.

We are less than a month into 2018, yet I believe we have already seen one of the finest movies of the entire year. This is a beautiful, bold and brilliant movie packed with stellar performances and in McDonagh, we have one of the finest talents in film with his stunning direction and incredible screenplay. The four wins it received at the Golden Globes (including Best Picture) may have come as a surprise to some, but it’s destined to be a serious contender in this year’s Oscar’s

The film follows Mildred Hayes (Frances McDormand) a mother who, when the police in her town fail to find a suspect in her daughter's murder, decides to rent three billboards to call public attention to the unsolved crime, which causes conflict between the local community, the police force and her family.

With quality and grace this film tackles racism, police brutality, rape and murder without ever overplaying it and never losing the sense of realism as it reflects the relevance of many of today’s headlines.

Frances McDormand is simply electrifying here, and if the world is right, she will win Best Actress at this year’s Oscar’s. Mildred is a very flawed character with serious issues but she somehow stays likeable and you root for her the entire way. The always consistent Woody Harrelson once again is on top form as Ebbing’s leading cop Bill Willoughby and it’s one of his finest performances in an incredible career. Harrelson is charming, provides many of the films best laughs and has great chemistry with both his wife Anne (Abbie Cornish) and his partner Dixon, played to perfection by Sam Rockwell.

Rockwell’s character starts as a spin on modern day American cops, but slowly transcends in to an incredible character arc which will leave you stunned. The transformation his character goes on is staggering and Rockwell fulfils this terrifically. He has serious personal problems but through his friendship with Harrelson matched with his true courage, Dixon single-handedly takes over the film’s second half and never looks back. Just like McDormand, their characters are rude and often vile but you just can’t help but fall in love with them.

And that also comes down to the impeccable writing by McDonagh. He has produced a screenplay which is hilarious, powerful and hugely affecting in equal measure, one that takes many unexpected but welcomed turns. One minute you will be roaring with laughter, the next on the verge of tears, the film takes you on an emotional rollercoaster.

However, there are a few minor flaws when we meet Mildred’s ex-husbands new teenage girlfriend. She doesn’t derail the film, but each of her jokes are unsuccessful and there are also a few plot holes which I wish were developed more or answered. But these are very minor errors in a stunning movie.

McDonagh’s film isn’t going to be to everyone’s taste, but if you’re a fan of his previous work or a fan of truly well-made cinema, this is one that shouldn’t be missed.

Verdict: A dark yet powerful Comedy/Drama with an emotional rollercoaster that is unforgettable.

Best Moment: Rockwell receives some unwanted news and decides to take his anger out on an enemy nearby.

Rating: 9/10

Still Showing:

Star Wars: The Last Jedi – 9/10

This is a 150 minute cinematic epic with jaw dropping action, beautiful visuals and enough twists and turns to leave your mind officially blown.

The Greatest Showman – 8/10

A feel good musical lead by a game Hugh Jackman, this features gorgeous directing, toe tapping musical numbers and all-star cast including Zac Efron and Zendaya.

Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle – 7.5/10

This hugely entertaining reimagining of the Robin Williams classic was a ton of fun with hilarious performances by Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart and Jack Black. It doesn’t all work but it’s a great film for the whole family!

New Releases This Week:

Coco

The Commuter

The Post

LEWIS PEARCE