Martin McDonagh’s "Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri"
Movie review by Dennis D. McDonald
The first time I watched this film, my attention was drawn primarily to the plot and the characters. It is a fascinating and engrossing tale of grief, absurdity, anger, and occasional implausibility, all leavened by flashes of humor and surprise.
The second time through, I want to pay closer attention to the technique — the acting, the script, the photography, the editing, and the music.
This is one film I don’t think can be improved. The casting and performances are superb, with Frances McDormand portraying a fierce and grief-stricken mother pursuing justice for her slain daughter in an environment of small-town complicity that seems to have moved on without her.
But she resists — and nothing goes according to plan.
Recommended.
Review copyright (c) 2026 by Dennis D. McDonald
