Review of Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri (2017) by Bradley J — 08 Feb 2018
Three Billboards has fantastic acting and a savvy plot in spades and while these are both necessary for a well-made, and reputable film, a consistent tone is a quality that is also important, and the Achilles Heel of this film.
It wants to be both a black comedy and tragic drama, but these two genres never fluidly collide, making for an awkward and overall unsatisfying journey. One minute you are grieving for this woman over a very tough subject and the next, someone throws out a deeply unsettling attempt at humor.
It all feels too darkly whimsical to give the story the proper due. I don't mind black humor, but I do mind a consistent tone and a more smooth meshing of the genres the film is aiming for. Those not familiar with the directors sensibilities will be left out in the cold and the affect of the film is one with a deep lack of an arc.
Frances McDormand is brilliant but her arc is non-existent. Sam Rockwell is the most fleshed out in this film and he will deserve the awards he will undoubtedly win. One just wishes the film was better at telling its powerful story.
Rating: 59.
This review of Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri (2017) was written by Bradley J on 08 Feb 2018.
Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri has generally received very positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
