Martin McDonagh

Taken simply as it comes, without reflecting, this is a 4-star or higher film. This is due to the flawless set of characters and great performances, principally Gleeson and Farrell as two hitmen told by their boss Fiennes to hide out in Bruges after a partially botched job. Fiennes himself only appears late in the film, but when he does, he is great too, as are Poesy and Madeley. Upon more reflection, the film's (and lead characters') dark heart and moral ambiguity is more apparent. Farrell's character, for instance, is wracked by guilt for an unintended killing, but apparently not by the intentional one. And Gleeson, who is instantly likable, is also a hitman! It's the interaction between these two characters and Fiennes that is the highlight of the film, as tough guys face off in scenes filled with wonderful, absolutely untrue-to-life dialogue somewhat like a John Wu film. Shot throughout is a wicked sense of humor that also helps to keep things moving. What can I say? Despite its darkness and death, this is a very impressive piece of work.… (meer)