In Bruges | Martin McDonagh, 2008
It is a rare occurrence when a modern playwright turns his hand to film directing, and rarer still when said candidate has not yet escaped his thirties. British-born Martin McDonagh is rather an emphatic exception to this notion it would seem. After scripting numerous acclaimed theatrical and radio plays (and being nominated for a Tony Award on four separate occasions), the playwright shifted his gaze to film production and a 2006 short film Six Shooter for which he won an Academy Award. Cue In Bruges, a first full-length feature and a film that continues the man’s obsession over his Irish heritage. While being born and raised in London, McDonagh has Irish blood in his veins and this fact reveals itself often within his work; a fact that has sparked some criticism in the past. In Bruges involves two of Ireland’s brighter acting talents in Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson as hired guns who are instructed to hide out among the towering medieval churches and majestic canal bridges of Bruges to await their next job. This inspired choice of casting showcases a wonderfully comedic chemistry between the duo, and allows the film a foundation on which to build its sharp script.
In Bruges considers some very real subjects, and while not entirely a morality play does attempt to portray the conscience of a killer – albeit with laughs. As risky as this concept sounds McDonagh actually succeeds in pulling it off – to a degree. None of the comedy to be found in the film feels force and as such we never feel this is used as a substitute or becomes a distraction – in fact, many of the film’s more serious moments are taken advantage of in quite hilarious fashion. The comedy is dark, hateful but extremely cheery and it is this aspect that sets In Bruges apart. I would liken it to another international comedy success from the same country: Shaun of the Dead. Both movies touch on some serious issues but ensure that a well-written punchline is never far away – the main difference here being that both Farrell and Gleeson are experienced dramatic actors so exhibit the range to deal with each end of the ‘dramedy’ spectrum. In Bruges is the kind of effort that couldn’t be anything other than a debut – it is fresh and fancy-free with wit and style to spare, offering a stunning backdrop and haunting score upon which the two leads base their wonderfully infectious dual performance.
Our Rating:
