Review - The Banshees of Insherin

 Disclosure: A complimentary code was received for review purposes.

Synopsis
From director-writer Martin McDonagh (Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri) comes a unique film starring Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson. Although Pádraic (Farrell) and Colm (Gleeson) have been lifelong friends, they find themselves at an impasse when one abruptly ends their relationship, bringing alarming consequences for both of them.

The Banshees of Insherin has received critical acclaim since it's release, most recently garnering Oscar nominations for nine categories, including Best Picture and Best Actor.

It's a solemn, humorous, and authentic portrayal of life in a remote Ireland island of Insherin during the Irish Civil War in the 20s.  

There are no luxuries, as most residents live and work humbly day after day, and find themselves at the local pub night after night.  

Padraic and Colm, the best of friends, would head to the pub together every day, until one day, their ritual stopped.  Unbeknownst to Padraic, Colm decided he didn't want to be friends with him anymore, as he found him to be dull.  Colm preferred to focus on his music rather than listen to Padraic ramble daily.

Refusing to believe that Colm no longer liked him, even after Colm threatened to chop off his fingers if Padraic talked to him anymore, Padraic relentlessly tried to get back his old pal.

There were glimmers of hope and signs of the old camaraderie, but when Colm did the unthinkable, and chopped off a finger after Padraic talked to him, Padraic knew things were serious.

Padraic's pain at losing his best friend was palpable, and it was more so when he lost the most important living being in his life because of the actions of Colm.  Ultimately their irreparable relationship and inability to compromise caused suffering not only for themselves, but those around them, paralleling what wars do to innocent people.

The Banshees of Insherin is a very thought-provoking movie, and I felt so much empathy for the characters.  There were those who were looking for a better life beyond Insherin, those looking for love, and those simply looking for acceptance.  

The performances of the cast were incredible, and very deserving of all of the awards and accolades.  

The Baneshees of Insherin is available on digital platforms, as well as select theaters nationwide.