McDonagh's American Commentary

Rating: 8/10 (1 March 2018)

Martin McDonagh has his virtues and his flaws. His virtues are quirky, not entirely realistic but engaging characters, his talent for irony and surprises, and his ability to tap into the darkest recesses of human emotions. His flaws are his lack of ear for dialogue and his mommy issues. All are on display here.
This movie is a good exploration of the rage that can be engendered by grief. Frances McDormand gives a gritty, powerful performance. I didn't find Sam Rockwell's character to be realistic, though, and some of the events stretched credulity. There's a scene or two lifted straight out of some of McDonagh's previous works.
It's an engaging, meticulous movie and I enjoyed it. I don't think McDonagh understands America, but some of the emotional themes ring true.