Tuesday, November 8, 2022

The Banshees of Inisherin - 3 Stars - Theaters - November 4, 2022

The year is 1923 and the place, a remote island off the coast of Ireland.  Colin Ferrell plays Padraic, a milk farmer with a fondness for his pet donkey.  He begins the story dropping by the cottage of his friend Colm (Brendon Gleeson) for their daily pint at the village pub.  This day, Colm's not having it.  He's tired of their friendship, more interested in playing the fiddle and composing music, specifically a suite titled "The Banshees of Inisherin."  Padraic won't accept the broken friendship and the tale escalates.  The Banshees of Inisherin looks gorgeous, with Irish landscapes set off by haunting music.  If this is comedy, it certainly goes to some dark places, as Colm threatens to cut off his fingers if his former friend won't leave him alone.  The result is a small gem and an award contender, although one that may leave some viewers scratching their heads.