The Banshees of Inisherin: Inisherin is a fictional island but it's stark beauty was created through filming on Inishmore and Achill Island. Fields full oif stones, stone walls everywhere so that some land might be cleared, a bleak existence for most, a struggle where the pub provides the only entertainment. Two friends fall out, Colm (Brendan Gleeson) decides that he won't speak to Pádraic (Colin Farrell) anymore because he's too dull. But he's always been dull retorts Siobhán (Kelly Condon), Pádraic's sister. It's not that Pádraic is stupid, it's just that his small talk is maddening to Colm. Colm feels he must devote his time to composing tunes, to leave a legacy. He is a gifted violinist and students come from all over Ireland to leatn from him. Things worsen between the duo and Colm threatens to cut off a finger each time Pádraic speaks to him. The film becomes dark, very dark, there is a line of black comedy which runs through it but at times even that cannot leaven the existential despair at play here. Siobhán alsi knows that the island offers her nothing, either in employment or relationships but a past is hinted at. The supporting cast is also superb, Domnic (Barry Keoghan) a simple minded lad who displays great insights at times, his abusive father Peadar (Gary Lydon) is the violent local guard. Set in 1923, it opens on 1st of April, the civil War is drawing to a close but gunfire can be heard from the Galway coast. This has little effect on Inisherin's populace except that Peadar gets extra pay to go and attend an execution. Some great dialogue, especially in the pub and two confessional confrontations between Colm and a priest (David Peaese). Not a film you'll forget in a hurry. Written and directed by Martin McDonagh. 9/10.
In cinemas.