“The Banshees of Inisherin” is such an Irish movie. Though often darkly funny, more often it's melancholy and depressing. Set on the fictional island of Inisherin just off the coast of Ireland's mainland, the residents live a simple, slow-paced life marked by routine. Such is the case for best friends Colm (Brendan Gleeson) and Pádraic (Colin Farrell) whose routine involves drinking pints every evening at the local pub together. But when Colm abruptly decides to end his friendship with Pádraic, Pádraic's existence is suddenly turned upside down. Desperately seeking answers as to why Colm could cut himself off from his friendship, Padraic's continued prodding of Colm only escalates their tensions. 

Their conflict invites questions about the nature of friendship, our basic need for connection, and the destructive power of despair and loneliness. The Irish setting underscores these themes, exemplified by Ben Davis's cinematography that effortlessly captures the raw and untamed beauty of the island but also the haunting isolation. The Irish Civil War waging in the background parallels Colm and Padraic's conflict--brothers fighting brothers for reasons that aren't particularly clear to those watching from afar. 

Farrell and Gleeson are both incredible in the leading roles. Their delivery of McDonagh's irreverent dialogue is perfect, but they convey so much with the nonverbal—Farrell's incredulous eyebrows and Gleeson's disdainful glances. The supporting cast is stellar as well. Kerry Condon is captivating as Padraic's sister, Siobahn. And equally impressive is Barry Keoughan's portrayal of Dominic. Both characters long for human connection but can't necessarily find that on Inisherin.  

Martin McDonagh has crafted a remarkable film that delves into the complexities of human connection and its profound impact on the human condition. Despite the hallmark dark and depressing tone of Irish cinema, a sense of hope and tenderness also resonates in the end. It's a must-watch for anyone who appreciates a thought-provoking movie.

— 4.5 / 5 ⭐