Film: Three Billboards outside Ebbing Missouri

Film: Three Billboards outside Ebbing, Missouri has a story that many can relate to. It is where a loved one is killed and there is no perceived justice. The film begins with Mildred Hayes driving past three derelict billboards in rural Missouri when she knows what to do. Her teenage daughter has been murdered and, as she sees it, the local sheriff has done sod all. Months have passed and she intends to deliver a message that will be up there with the best. Sheriff Willoughby will see her message elevated above the trees. It is a reaction that is sought and it arrives from more than one source. At times unpleasant, with violence, and scenes of racism, of sexism and with an abundant use of Anglo-Saxon expletives. It is gripping and there are ripples of ‘dark humour’ that are well presented,
Martin McDonagh’s creation and with Frances McDormand as Mildred. She is supported by two super performances by Woody Harrelson and Sam Rockwell. All three are nominated for the Oscars and are deserved. It is a production that is enjoyable and absorbing although a tad lengthy. It is different and it is terrific.