In Bruges

If the new movie In Bruges is any measure to go by, this might turn out to be a really good year for the movies (not that 2007 was any slouch). If you are expecting an action movie when you go see In Bruges , you may be disappointed. In Bruges is a black comedy/drama, a subtle black comedy. It doesn't hit you over the head with a frying pan. In Bruges takes time to build its characters and plotlines, and it makes them well. The plot has to do with two gangsters hiding out in Bruges, after they have completed a murder in another town. The two gangsters are played by Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson. Their fiery boss is played by Ralph Fiennes. The movie was written and directed by Martin McDonagh.

Pulling off a comedy/drama type of movie is like walking over a tightrope. The miracle of In Bruges is that it pulls it off in style. The movie has a smart script and is beautifully acted. All of the parts are wonderfully acted and feel true. Sadly this is a movie that probably will be seen mostly on DVD. The movie has an impact on a big screen that will be lost watching it on a smaller screen. There are a lot of close-ups used throughout the movie, and it helps us get inside of the characters minds and understand their motives. The movie has a tragic undercurrent that is running just below the surface, but doesn't sink the film.

Colin Farrell gives a great performance, as if he realizes he is looking into the abyss, as the somewhat dim Ray. Along with Brendan Gleeson's portrayal as his partner Ken, in a few scenes the two seem to be trying to capture the spirit of Laurel and Hardy, and it doesn't particularly work in this film. This is a minor complaint though because there is so much in the movie that does work.

The trailer, unfortunately, gives away a lot of the best scenes in the movie, but doesn't really give a good indication of how emotionally complex the movie is. Please don't ever make the mistake of judging a movie by how many tickets it sells. Even though this hasn't done that well at the box office, this movie does deserve an audience. This is not Shakespeare, but it is good, damn good.