In Bruges: Distinctly poetic and greatly entertaining

Once one is exposed to the work of Martin McDonagh, one finally realizes what good cinema really is all about. In this, which is one of the greatest movies of all time (as is the norm when it comes to McDonagh), you are instantly immersed into the story and connected with its characters.

Diverging views indeed!

Upfront, you are introduced to both, the context of Bruges, in a stunning display of the Belgian town's night, as well as the contrasting but complementing personalities of hit-men Ray and Ken, and their diverging views towards the city. Furthermore, McDonagh's subtle humor and intense atmosphere are apparent already in the first line spoken, and are a good introduction to the film's tone throughout. A tone that is then greatly supported by the photographic depiction of Bruges, and the well fitting sound track. [...]

While McDonagh may be considered violent, his characters are far more human than most in this genre. He really believes in moral and dignity, as in his world, those are undeniable attributes of any person. Which leads us to what makes his style unique: He creates absolutely human characters, with the single most well developed psyches in the industry, but allows himself more freedom in the physical side, where he might exaggerate or slightly caricaturize the events.

Moreover, his story takes quite a few twists and turns along the way, in what is a masterful script that keeps with his continued focus on the human aspect, rounded off with the flawless dialog that is both very insightful and quite amusing. All of which is later followed up by one of his always unexpected and singularly poetic endings.

Then you have the challenge of forming a cast that can hold up to such character intricacy, though that seems to be no issue here, as we can witness a first class ensemble bringing their absolute A-game, with the seemingly effortless and absolutely appropriate, Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson in the main roles, and Ralph Fiennes, Clémence Poésy and Jordan Prentice along their side.

Farrell and Gleeson, make a perfect duo and certainly know how to capture the McDonagh feel, something that is reaffirmed when Farrell later took part in Martin McDonagh's other masterpiece, Seven Psychopaths, and Gleeson appeared in films such as John Michael McDonagh's stupendous creation, Calvary. Fiennes enters the film with his usual genius, while Poésy came as somewhat of a surprise to me, as I haven't been too fond of her previous cinematic efforts, but she really shines this time. And finally, we have Prentice, playing an odd character who's personality varies from serious and meaningful to totally nonsensical, displaying quite some range.

What did you think of In Bruges? Are you looking forward to McDonagh's next creation? Share your thoughts in the comments bellow!