Minute44 - Dan Schonhaar

Directed By: Martin McDonagh
Starring: Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson, Ralph Fiennes

Hit men Ray (Farrell) and Ken (Gleeson) are sent to Bruges, Belgium following a semi-successful job in London. Unsure about why they have been sent to Bruges the two men try and make the best of their 2 week stay. But soon it becomes apparent that their purpose in Bruges is not all together savoury. What ensues is a blackly funny chain of events that will leave many dead and many more offended.

I’d seen the adverts for this several months ago and, to be honest didn’t think that it looked like much more than a throw away comedy. However, on the strong recommendation of a friend and several decent reviews, I decided to check it out. I have to say, although Nat hated it, I thought this film was excellent. I can always tell when I’ve really enjoyed a film by the amount of lines I quote from it on the way back from the cinema… and in this case, I’m still doing it. The script was very good indeed, vulgar and hilarious. I don’t think I’ve seen such a use of the C word in a movie for quite some time. Now, although this isn’t a word I like, I do feel it suited this movie well and I don’t think any scenes that featured it suffered. Political incorrectness seems to be the order of the day with In Bruges with no subject being taboo.

Casting was superb as well. Colin Farrell speaking in his native accent was refreshing and Brendan Gleeson played the seasoned hit man with a wit as dry as the Sahara to a tee. I think the star of the show, for me, though was Ralph Fiennes as Harry, the two hit men’s boss. His dialogue combined with the way Fiennes delivered it made his character brilliant.

I don’t want to give too much away about the story as there are some surprises, so I’ll keep this review brief. I will say though, if you’re a fan of comedic British gangster movies such as Lock Stock, you’ll love this. Oddly, I’m not a fan of Lock Stock or Snatch but i still loved this as it is a lot more of a comedy than those two movies. Towards the end In Bruges gets very gory and is definitely not one for the squeamish. Although there are a couple of slap stick laughs, this movie is all about the humour in the dialogue so if your attention span is a little short or you prefer your comedy a little more animated, then perhaps give In Bruges a miss. Otherwise, get down the cinema and enjoy what is a very accomplished, funny and unique movie.

Verdict: