I had previously attempted to watch this on two separate occasions in previous years, but in both instances something came up that prevented me from finishing it. I never got very far: as reference for those who've seen it, I didn't even know Ralph Fiennes was in the movie until this viewing, so I obviously didn't get very far on either previous occasion.
Well, third time's the charm, something this film has plenty of.
After a job goes wrong, Irish hitmen Ray and Ken (Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson, respectively) are told by their boss Harry (Fiennes) to go to Bruges, Belgium. It's a small-scale plot, which allows the film to focus heavily on the characters.
Farrell's Ray is the younger, more angry of the two, self-hating, unhappy to be anywhere but Dublin, and wracked by the guilt of what he did on the last job. Gleeson's Ken is wiser, more content with being a tourist, with mannerisms completely divorced from what you'd expect of a hitman: he's positively adorable in the way he treats people, never wanting to offend anybody, and only ever getting angry with Ray's constant whining and belligerence about having to stay in Bruge. Fiennes' Harry is a highlight as well, unbelievably foul-mouthed and horrible to everyone, yet with a strict moral code.
In Bruges is acutely funny, filled with clever and casually offensive dialogue. Every interaction is used simultaneously to develop the characters and build their appeal to the audience. It's fun just to listen to the characters talk. The discussions are also introspective, not only funny, but philosophical; at one point the two discuss the extent to which killing someone is truly killing them, as Ray tries to cope with the blame he holds over himself, but of course it eventually devolves into bickering about karate and lollipop men. It's laughter that holds character.
The city of Bruge is also used beautifully here; Our eyes are treated to beautiful architecture, cobbled streets and tourism spots. That said, it never feels forced on us, as Ray's complaints keep everything in a humorously cynical perspective.
I won't spoil anything more about the plot, but know that it is well-written, developing in ways that are both clever and appropriate given the characters we are presented with. The whole film's tone also shifts when needed, holding on the more serious moments so that the film carries weight.
The Verdict: In Bruges is an excellently written and characterised film, with a lot of laughs and a few moments of quiet respect. Definitely recommended to anyone who hasn't seen it, except children (of course). While I'm at it, I recommend that anyone who enjoys this movie also check out director Martin McDonagh's other film, Seven Psychopaths, which is similar in a lot of ways and just as good.
Rating: 7.5/10
Watched January 7th, 2016, Published July 5th, 2016
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