Review of In Bruges (2008) by Paul R — 04 Nov 2013

"What the fuck can you do in Bruges?".

Well, if you're Colin Ferrel, who goes through an emotional transition as a hit-man with his multicultural partner (Brendan Glesson), apparently a lot can happen once you're in Bruges. This black-comedy is both entertaining and grim at times, yet it never delves into sentimentality or schmaltz that forgets its characters. Martin McDonaugh is a writer that strikes with wry wit and intelligence that it becomes both enriching and endearing to watch these vibrant, lively characters have exchanges that range from Ferrrel's flagrant statements about filming midgets to living a life of regret and sorrow. It certainly doesn't help as his partner tugs him along to enjoy the sights and medieval-like art and structures--all gazing upon Ferrel with absolute contempt for his soul. With a sort of Guy Ritchie-vibe to it, it never borrows from anything previously established, it makes its own world and language so buoyant that it becomes quite indelible. Ferrel is remarkably great; for once, he plays a grounded yet zany character that Ferrel wears the character like a perfect hand-gun slipping through one's fingers. Gleeson is a perfect contrast of duality, always restrained with every ounce of credibility and a sense of being astute throughout the duration. The film is highly hysterical as it is emotionally draining, but the natural, fluid progression of the narrative manages to keep it in a straight, yet unpredictable manner. This is the work of a genius.