THE BANSHEES OF INISHERIN CONFUSES AND COMPELS
A REVIEW By Fiona Bolzan
The Banshees of Inisherin has a bizarre plot that is intriguing; however, the movie takes it to extremes at certain points in the film.
As a tragic comedy, The Banshees of Inisherin uses layered characters, situational comedy, and complex relationships to build a dark and witty storyline. The movie takes place on the Isle of Inisherin during the Irish Civil War in 1923. It features two supposedly best friends; Colm Doherty played by Brendan Gleeson and Pádraic Súilleabháin played by Colin Farrell. After spending years side by side, one day Colm decides to no longer be friends with Padraic, as he deems him dull. Naturally confused, Padraic continues to badger Colm about why their friendship is ending. Colm threatens to cut off one finger for every time Padraic speaks to him.
The strange ultimatum takes the friends through a long, funny, and emotional journey through the end of the friendship. Director Martin McDonagh also creates a commentary on the Irish Civil War through the arbitrary conflict the two men have.
The acting performances from Farrell and Gleeson were incredible. Both actors encapsulated the complex relationship of the two friends and portrayed a great deal of range with both emotional scenes and quick wit. Their outstanding performances earned them both Oscar nominations, Farrell for Best Leading Actor and Gleeson for Best Supporting Actor.
The impressive acting extended beyond the two main characters. Kerry Condon as Padraic’s sister Siobhon, and Barry Keoghan as Dominic Kearney both had excellent execution of their characters’ complex inner conflicts and struggles with family and town loyalty.
The plot of the movie was certainly unique. While I understood the symbolism, it was slightly too abstract. The concept of Colm cutting his fingers off definitely drew in the audience, but as the plot continues, the lineage of their dispute and the actions of the characters becomes too extreme and upsetting. The ending is left slightly open to interpretation. However, in regards to the dialogue and character development, the movie certainly lives up to the praise. The conversations and characters feel very real. The movie dives deep into the emotional scenes, incorporating humorous moments and witty characters.
The cinematography of the movie was beautiful. It is hard to go wrong with the rolling fields of Ireland and the movie utilizes the scenery well with both gorgeous landscape scenes and scenes that juxtaposes the beauty in the land and the rundown nature of the town.
Overall, the director conveys his commentary in an unique and effective way. Although it becomes slightly too bizarre, I appreciate the risk the film takes with metaphors and symbolism. I recommend this movie, but be prepared to think about it for days after viewing.