I just watched (and read the screenplay for) BANSHEES OF INISHERIN and I am amazed at this absolute masterpiece of a film. If you want a course on integrating theme (loneliness, isolation, inevitable death) with subplot, and many other lessons for that matter, I recommend you watch and read this film.
I really liked how the three story lines (A,B, and C) illustrated the themes of loneliness and isolation and how one copes with those feelings.
Like NOMADLAND, the big question is: How do people with nothing construct meaning of their lives? In the case of INISHERIN, that "nothing" is a sense of minimal social connections and limited prospects on a small island.
Spoiler Alert: The three storylines demonstrate the three options of what one can do with limited prospects and loneliness. Storyline A: Padraic turns bitter and at home with his new imposed status as a misanthrope; Storyline B (Dominic in love with Siobhan, which she rejects): Suicide when you realize your prospects are hopeless; Storyline C (Siobhan leaving): Leave your place of isolation.
This film definitely fits Tarantino's "Pie Test" (If you want to chat about it with friends over pie - it's a good movie!) If I can ever write a film half as well integrated, characterized and intriguing I will consider myself a success.
1 person likes this
I've watched this movie twice. I really liked In Bruges, so Inisherin was a must-see for me. I enjoy watching Martin McDonagh's skill in creating these dark comedies and also using locations/settings as a character. I have to read the screenplay.
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Loved the film but could only watch it once. It hit too many personal notes for me to handle a second viewing. Excellent film in writing, directing and acting.