In Bruges
I have this theory, a perfectly good theory, on how Colin Farrell is actually an incredible actor. A brilliant one, actually, that can do so much with so little. The problem is that he picks some duds and should probably look into getting a new agency. After all, he is actually, excellent but when romantic comedys like A New York Winter’s Tale comes along and he stars in remakes such as Total Recall, he has a bit of a bad reputation. In my eyes, every film he needs to be in must be penned by Martin McDonagh. Only that relationship can see Farrell wrap his tongue around hilarious ecstatic dialogue and soar with it. None of that is more paramount than with In Bruges
In Bruges is the darkly comic film and debut from winning playwright Martin McDonagh. It centres on two hit men, Ray and Ken who are sent to Bruges, Belgium after Ray accidentally kills a young boy on his first hit. While they soak up the culture there, waiting for a phone call from their boss Harry. Along the way, the meet a dwarf actor, a heroine dealing girl, a pregnant hotel owner and a couple of manky prostitutes. However, when Ken gets the call from Harry to dispose of Ray, Ken goes through turmoil when faced with killing someone he has bonded with.
In Bruges is one of those spot on movies. Impeccable from start to finish, every slots into place in a somewhat unnerving way. The comedy is thick and fast as McDonagh’s highly charged dialogue sparks laughs throughout. Though there is a darker presence, and some uncouth quips from, literally, every goddamn character in the film; many will come out of In Bruges with giddy excitement. The script hits every note from the deep and sad visceral to the absurd and hilarious. There is not one moment that feels off and thus In Bruges becomes one of the most intelligent pieces of writing from a debut film screenwriter.
And luckily, the strength of the script is pulled off by our leads. Brendon Gleeson is a phenomenal actor who completely captures the essence of humanity. Not only can he portray gleeful wonder and tourist curiosity, but he can strive with the darker elements bubbling underneath him. In short, he is embodies his characters and fleshes them out to such a level that Ken fees. And add Ralph Fiennes to the mix in as the hysterical, principle following gangster Harry and it becomes a riotous effort.
Like I said, Colin Farrell excels with Martin McDonagh’s dialogue, proved recently in Seven Psychopaths (go what that too.) Really though, In Bruges is his best role and it is one of the best Irish films of all time. Truly a spectacular exploration of the consciousness of hit men, the hyperactivity of them too and the seedy underbelly of the world. Though many, and I can see this, may be put off by the crass vulgarity of some of the players here, In Bruges is entertaining, dramatic and riotous all at the same time.
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