Grief is a messy thing, and filmmaker Martin McDonagh doesn’t shy away from it in “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri.” This 2017 dark comedy takes us to a small town bubbling with anger and frustration.
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Warning: This post includes spoilers for “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri.”
How Far Can Grief Take Us?: “Three Billboards” Review
A Mother’s Battle: Grief, Anger, and Hope in Three Billboards
The movie is about Mildred Hayes (Frances McDormand), a mother devastated by the unsolved rape and murder of her daughter. Frustrated by the lack of progress from the local police, she takes a bold step. She rents three big billboards on the edge of town, calling out the Ebbing Police Department’s failure to solve the case.
Mildred’s actions stir up the town. Some people see her as a hero standing up to a lazy police force. Others think she’s just causing trouble.
The Heavy Weight of Loss: How Grief Shapes Mildred’s World
“Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri” shows how loss affects Mildred. Her decision to put up those billboards comes from her unresolved grief and anger. The billboards are a constant, public reminder of her pain and her fight for justice.
Her interactions with the police chief and the community show how isolating and alienating her deep loss can be.
Through Mildred’s character, the film explores how people deal with unbearable grief and how loss can change their view of the world and their relationships.
Beyond Grief: Exploring Revenge, Redemption, and the Human Condition
But what makes “Three Billboards” special is that it’s not just about loss. It’s also about revenge and redemption. The movie tackles tough subjects and throws ethical dilemmas at the audience, making us think about justice, forgiveness, and how far we might go when we’re overwhelmed by grief.
Writer-director Martin McDonagh doesn’t give us easy answers. The characters are flawed, messy, and sometimes frustrating. But beneath the anger and their unusual ways, there’s a spark of humanity that keeps us watching. There are no clear heroes or villains, just people struggling to navigate the messy realities of life.
Balancing Dark Humor and Raw Emotion
One of the film’s biggest strengths is its ability to mix the harsh realities of grief and anger with moments of dark humor and unexpected kindness. Director Martin McDonagh shows the grief and anger of a mother who lost her daughter but also includes moments of compassion, pity, and humor.
All these emotions come together to create a deeply resonant and emotional film.
Performances That Leave a Mark
Speaking of the cast, they’re nothing short of phenomenal. Frances McDormand shines as Mildred Hayes, showing her grief, anger, and determination with raw authenticity. She deserved every award she got for this role.
Woody Harrelson brings a calm and dignified presence to his role as the police chief and Sam Rockwell delivers a career-defining performance as Officer Dixon.
From Billboards to Awards
“Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri” is not only a powerful film but also a critical and audience darling. Its poignant story, coupled with incredible performances, has garnered a remarkable collection of awards.
With 5 BAFTAs, 4 Golden Globes, and 2 Academy Awards under its belt, the film’s popularity and critical acclaim are undeniable. Furthermore, its impressive 90% score on Rotten Tomatoes solidifies its status as a modern cinematic masterpiece.
Why You Should Watch “Three Billboards”
“Three Billboards” is a powerful and thought-provoking film that will leave you entertained, challenged, and maybe a bit heartbroken. It doesn’t offer easy answers. Instead, it stays with you long after the credits roll, making you reflect and discuss the messy realities of human nature.
If you want a film that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking, “Three Billboards” is definitely worth watching.
More Movies Like “Three Billboards”
Are you looking for more films like the intense and emotional journey of “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri”? Here are three cinematic gems that explore similar themes of grief, justice, and the complexities of human nature:
1. Mystic River (2003)
Clint Eastwood’s Oscar-winning masterpiece takes us back to the streets of Boston, where a childhood trauma continues to haunt three men decades later. Sean Penn, Tim Robbins, and Kevin Bacon deliver unforgettable performances in this gripping story of loss, guilt, and the search for answers.
2. Prisoners (2013)
Brace yourself for a heart-pounding thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end. Hugh Jackman delivers a tour-de-force performance as a desperate father whose young daughter vanishes without a trace. Jake Gyllenhaal shines as the enigmatic detective assigned to the case.
“Prisoners” is a masterclass in suspense, exploring the lengths we’ll go to protect those we love.
3. Gone Baby Gone (2007)
This gritty neo-noir thriller, directed by Ben Affleck in his directorial debut, follows two private detectives tasked with finding a missing child. As they navigate the underbelly of Boston, they uncover a web of corruption and deceit that forces them to confront their own moral boundaries.
This film is a poignant exploration of the grey areas in morality and the difficult choices people must make in the face of complex truths.
