Review of The Banshees of Inisherin (2022) by Moviemitch96 — 04 Nov 2022

Two longtime friends (Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson) find themselves at odds with each other when one of them abruptly ends their friendship and begins ignoring and avoiding them at all costs. Written and directed by Martin McDonough ( who famously first collaborated with Farrell and Gleeson in the 2008 dark comedy/crime film 'In Bruges') reunites here with the two stars to bring us this equally absurdist and darkly humorous tale set in early 1920s Ireland.

The film is a dark, bold, and often somber yet sometimes funny look at changing times and the lengths some will go to fight for a friendship, as well as the lengths some will go to shun others. McDonough, who is known for his dark yet witty humor and dialogue in his stage plays, as well as in previous films such as the aforementioned 'In Bruges', 'Seven Psychopaths' and 'Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri' brings that signature style of his here as well with darkly fascinating results.

As for the cast, Farrell and Gleeson are once again in top form alongside each other, and even Kerry Condon, who plays the sister to Farrell's character gives an often riotous, scene-stealing supporting turn.

Whenever the film wasn't making me laugh, it would often hit me in the feels unexpectedly and throw me for a loop whenever I least expected it. Overall, this brilliantly acted film that's equal parts dark/dreary and oddly humorous is a true standout for me and one of the better films of this year.