Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri

From Martin McDonagh, director of In Bruges and Seven Psychopaths.  Some of my early reviews

Daisy's (Frances McDormand) life has turned upside down after the unsolved murder of her daughter.  There has been little progress on the case.  She decides to rent 3 billboards which are side by side to express her displeasure at the local police department:

Raped While Dying

7 months and no arrests

How Come Chief Wiloughby?

As the result, people in this small town take sides.  The Chief (Woody Harralson) is a good man but has a few loose cannons Jason (Sam Rockwell) on the force.  Jason epitomizes what is wrong with the local sheriff.    He is responsible for adding to the  black/white divisions in the town.  As a result everyone seems to turn on everyone else like in Reservoir Dogs.

It reminded me of another heartland story, mystery of a missing family member Dark Places also set in the heartland.  Of course, Frances McDormand reminds me of her classic role in Fargo.  This had a Coen Brothers feel as well.

* * * * of 5.  Original story, would have liked more mystery and less violence.

On second watch, I was able to follow the story and the dialogue better.  Both improved the second time.  Peter Dinklage gives a strong supporting performance.  Unusual Irish casting in the heartland of America.  I guess the budget could only stretch so far.    Lots in interesting subplots going on - the ex husband, the allegations of torture, the mother/son relation, the unusual alliances.

I'll give it an extra 1/2 star for that.