198 out of 200 people found the following review helpful:
*** May contain spoilers ***
Farrell shines
Meako from ,
7th April, 2008
Colin Farrell has done little to stand out over recent years. Since the debacle that was Alexander, the once rising star seemed to almost vanish from the scene. Even his role in Miami Vice, whilst good, was nothing special and left no lasting resonance. Well, with In Bruges he makes a definite mark in the film world again, and gives a performance worth watching. As Ray, a hitman who is sent to Bruges with his partner-in-crime Ken (Brendan Gleeson), he finds himself trapped and bored in the historical city. Ray is more of a city lad, and needs excitement - he is also not exactly the sharpest of tools and blunders around with an innocent naivete. As Ray and Ken await a call from gangland boss Harry (Ralph Fiennes) they explore the sights and find ways to pass the time. When the job finally comes through it is likely to change the pair forever. Farrell and Gleeson play wonderfully against each other throughout, with witty banter similar in tone to that heard in Kiss Kiss Bang Bang a couple of years back. Right from the word go the laughs start, and you are instantly captivated by the lives of these two otherwise unlikable characters. The reason for their exile to Bruge is made clear early on, and is quite shocking, but even through their past crimes you actually come to care for the pair as the film progresses. Small scatterings of action are peppered through the film, with a strong wrapping up of the story towards the end. The direction allows for the breathtaking scenery to be appreciated, whilst not slowing down the film. Great use of long shots and close-ups really gets you involved in the proceedings, and captures the conversational wit, complementing it with the right looks. This is a great film with a strong cast, and with plenty to latch onto throghout. Very dark in tone, and guaranteed to offend some people, the film simply doesn't care and genuinely entertains. Well worth watching. NB: Unlike james james (submitter of so-called review which is nought but a cut and paste from Focus Features' official promo blurb for the film - see rottentomatoes.com for the original source) this is an actual REVIEW of the film.
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