Oh my goodness, I'm so far behind with blogging! I actually just got back on my every-other-day blogging schedule with the new year and hopefully, will stay on track. As long time readers know, I'm usually consistent, but 2017 presented challenges that made me fall behind.
Any-hoo, I saw the incredible Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, when I went on my movie binge the week after Thanksgiving, during a trip to Portland. One of my favorite things about Portland is the Regal Theater at Fox Tower. It's a wonderful little theater that offers wine and has a great selection of indy/art house films.
PLOT- Mildred (Frances McDormand) is beyond frustrated with the local police department. Months earlier, her daughter was brutally raped and murdered, and so far, the killer has not been caught. In efforts to get the police to focus on her daughter's case, Mildred buys advertising space on a trio of billboards in a rural area. On the billboards, she calls out Police Chief Willoughby (Woody Harrelson), a highly regarded man who is going through private issues of his own. Mildred's actions stir up the town, including bringing to light other issues, such as racism and brutality by Willoughby's second in command, Officer Dixon ( Sam Rockwell). Two issues come to light, Ebbing is a town with serious problems, but also things and people, are not always as they appear on the surface.
LIKE- Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri is a very surprising film. I truly had no idea where the plot was heading and I could not have anticipated the twists. The script is phenomenal. It's filled with complex and memorable characters and the overall plot is so unexpected. During my screening, there were multiple moments where audience members gasped or said something aloud in response, it elicited an audience energy, that even the latest Star Wars film couldn't top.
I'm writing this after knowing that Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri won several top prizes at the Golden Globes and it's all well-deserved. Without question, this was the best movies that I've seen all year. I've been a long-time fan of Frances McDormand, but I've got to give a special mention to Sam Rockwell. He transforms himself in this film. I knew he looked familiar, but until I saw the end credits, I had no idea that it was Rockwell. I will be thrilled if Three Billboards Outside of Ebbing, Missouri gets all of the top awards, but if Rockwell loses the Ocscar for Best Supporting Actor or it doesn't win a screenplay award, I will be shocked.
DISLIKE- Not a single thing.
RECOMMEND- Yes, yes, yes!!! Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri is a must see!