Indeed, there's not much to change in this movie which should nestle in a boatload of Oscar nominations. It's the type of film and performances that last with you long after you dumped your popcorn in the trash receptacle. While not a production for everybody, "Three Billboards yada yada yada" tells a tale that is compelling from beginning to end.
The always welcome Frances McDormand plays a Missouri woman who is fed up with the Ebbing police department because they seem to have packed it in trying to solve the rape and murder of her daughter. This is the kind of role that has you picking out an Oscar dress ahead of time. McDormand can do so right now.
The Ebbing police department is played by Woody Harrelson and Sam Rockwell and they are not exactly Sheriff Andy and Barney. They're the ones in McDormand's crosshairs and hence she challenges them by posting messages on three billboards. A fourth billboard should tell Harrelson and Rockwell to tux shop for Oscar night, too.
The same goes for screenwriter/director Martin McDonagh who is also Oscar bound for this ultra dark black comedy/drama that takes you some really uncharted film territory. If this comes up short at all is in the last fifteen minutes, where it appears they're not sure how to end it. But, like many local crimes, they go unresolved and perhaps that's the point they are trying to convey.
This is one highly recommended movie and you will be hearing it a bit on Oscar night in between Jimmy Kimmel's unsuccessful attempts at comedy.
Just go up to the box office and say "Three Billboards." They'll know what you mean.
LEN'S RATING: Three-and-a-half stars.
Dinner last night: Christmas dinner...beef tenderloin with potatoes, Brussels sprouts with pancetta, cucumber salad, and tomato soup.
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