One word to describe this dark dramedy is exhilarating. I watched this film in the theatre and it kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. The perfect pacing of unpredictable storytelling was perfect. It felt like a rollercoaster. There were fast-paced scenes to scenes that allowed me to breathe normally. The anticipation of wanting to find out what happened next made my experience even that better. No wonder this movie has 7 Academy Award nominations.
One main half of the movie's success is the writing and story. The concept of putting up three billboards to capture the police department's attention was so interesting and all to attempt serving justice for your daughter was very clever and fresh. It's best to not know much before seeing the film because you will be gobsmacked. The dialogue written by the talented Martin McDonagh was impeccable. The balance between drama and comedy was flawless. Every word that comes out of the main character, Mildred Hayes, makes you laugh or show empathy. Not only is there a balance, there are important themes that is prevalent to our current issues. There are themes of race, rape, murder, and revenge all to find the culprit that took the life of Mildred's daughter. The actions Mildred takes to get the police department to fully uncover the truth are equally heartbreaking and comedic. The whole story keeps you guessing and just when you think you have solved the mystery, something else totally unpredictable occurs.
The other main half of the movie's success is the outstanding cast. Led by the fierce Frances McDormand followed by Woody Harrelson and Sam Rockwell playing supporting roles. McDormand has such wonderful lines to say and she fully delivers it perfectly, giving the audience more insight to who Mildred Hayes is. The character is a challenging one and McDormand is the only and perfect actress to portray her. As supporting roles, Woody Harrelson and Sam Rockwell match McDormand's energy. Harrelson plays a character the audience feels for and the emotions he brings are enough to make you cry. Rockwell, on the other hand, knows how to mood shift in a subtle way that's believable. The character transition was that of a powerful one and Rockwell portrays that transitionto its fullest. The rest of the cast had minor roles but still brought their A-game to the film. This cast was half of why the movie became a critical success.
This movie is truly exceptional. Not just the writing and the cast but other components also play a factor but those two stands out the most. Do yourself a favor and go see this amazing film that will truly make you laugh, empathize, think, and really feel for this mother's grief.