Martin McDonagh’s newest comedic drama, “The Banshees of Inisherin,” is a unique story about the inner workings of a friendship in strain — touching on the idea that you don’t know what you have until it’s gone.

“The Banshees of Inisherin” follows the complicated friendship of Pádraic, played by Colin Farrell, and Colm, played by Brendan Gleeson, in 1920s Ireland. The two men were best friends until, suddenly, Colm breaks off contact with Pádraic with the desire to end their friendship. Naturally, Pádraic is initially dumbfounded, thinking it is all a joke. That is, until Colm says each time Pádraic speaks to him, he will cut off one of his own fingers. Pádraic remains skeptical until fingers start getting thrown at his front door following his interactions with Colm.

Filming took place on the beautiful Irish islands of Inis Mor and Achill island. The haze on these islands makes for a mysterious atmosphere, fitting the unsettling essence of the story. However, the scenery is downright breathtaking. The rolling green hills of these islands are serene and calm, adding to the irony that a story so uncomfortable could happen in such a quaint little village.

Having already worked together on “In Bruges” in 2008, Farrell and Gleeson’s chemistry is unmatched. The strength of their performances is immense, especially Farrell as Pádraic and his unparalleled ability to invoke sympathy in his characters. Gleeson does a phenomenal job stirring up the mysterious nature of his predicament and keeping the audience guessing. Kerry Condon provides a powerful performance as Siobhan, Pádraic’s sister, with her capturing screen presence. Barry Keoghan makes an appearance as Dominic, mastering a character of youth and innocence, something he has repeatedly shown himself capable of.

Along with the performances, the essence of mystery and peculiarity surrounding this film is captivating. McDonagh takes his time with the plot, not revealing the answers as quickly as the audience might like. Instead, he opts to build suspense that keeps viewers on their toes. This may come across as boring and long for some audience members, but for others, they will be fascinated by the possibilities the plot can bring.

McDonagh’s world building abilities are top-tier. He writes places and stories that keep viewers immersed in his crafted world. It is almost as if Inisherin, the village, is a character itself. The connections viewers have to just the village itself is strong.

Pádraic’s sensitivity for those he cares for makes him a lovable character, but we also understand why he gets frustrated and angry with Colm. Thanks to his uncanny ability to inspire sympathy, Pádriac makes an effective main character that audiences can root for.

Colm, on the other hand, gets much less sympathy. He completely cuts off his friend — a good person — simply because he wants peace and calm. However, that doesn’t make him any less compelling. Colm’s drastic choices keep viewers consistently engaged.

Condon’s Siobhan is charming because of her intelligence matched with her longing to leave Inisherin. It is understandable to want to leave and explore a new place, but also disappointing because Pádraic needs her presence, otherwise he will be lonely. Keoghan’s Dominic is an abused kid who becomes Pádraic’s drinking buddy. He is comedic and charming, but also innocent and annoying, and the audience can’t help but fall in love.

It wouldn’t be a McDonagh film without supreme comedy, however.

From the awkward silences to the witty dialogue, McDonagh has continued his reputation as a strong comedic writer and director after the successes of In Bruges, Seven Psychopaths and Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri. His comedy is unique because he can make even long pauses comedic, while also detailing that the characters are contemplating what to say, furthering the conversation; it is not just a long pause to be awkward. All of his humor has a purpose in developing a plot or a character, but despite the long pauses, quippy responses and even dark humor, none of it distracts people from his narrative.

McDonagh once again outdid himself with “The Banshees of Inisherin”releasing a stellar product. One would be remiss to say his future films would not fill more seats in theaters. Backed by a cleverly intricate script and a star-studded cast, the 2022 film proved to be one of the best films of the year.

Edited by Egan Ward | eward@themaneater.com
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