If you go by the title, you might wonder why you should watch a movie that is about three billboards in a place you have never heard of. If you look a bit further and see that Martin McDonagh is the writer and director, it becomes more interesting. He made the highly valued In Bruges in the past and was also responsible for Seven Psychopaths. And with a star cast including Francis McDormand, Woody Harrelson, Sam Rockwell and four Golden Globes (for best actress in a drama, best film (drama), best male supporting role in film and best script) is this one of the first must-sees of the year.
The three billboards in the title are rented by Mildred (McDormand), which she uses for a message to the local police. Her daughter was raped and murdered a few months ago and she wonders why no one has been arrested yet. In the small community, the signs produce a lot of controversy, also with the police.
Where do you start with a movie like this? For me it was a pleasure to watch from start to finish. The acting is excellent. McDormand plays a woman who is not afraid of anything and takes action to find answers, regardless of who it is. Harrelson’s character is one with depth that although is the person responsible for the case can realistically do much more to solve it, but nevertheless engages in conversation about it. Sam Rockwell is amazing as both a stupid and violent agent in every scene and a pleasure to watch. A source of both comedy and frustration. Thanks to very sharp dialogue and a story where every character is not only good or bad, it is a film that has already secured a place in my top 10 at the end of the year. A title that I have already seen twice and also liked that second viewing. A not to be missed movie.
[score10]
Oooooh you definitely liked it ALOT more than I did. The reactions have been really interesting but I couldn’t shake the host of issues I had.
Top of the list for 2017, in my opinion. Flawless acting and direction, as well as a splash of irony and humour, make 3BB my choice for Best Picture this year.
I think this is one I’d appreciate even more second time around. I expect this one to do very well at the Oscars…especially Sam Rockwell!! Great review 🙂
I really wanted to love this one. It falls victim to the kind of scrip problems I couldn’t see past. The performances are strong, but this disappointed me.
Didn’t miss it. Didn’t regret it. A brilliant, astounding film that IS my top pick for 2017. A flat-out masterpiece.