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IN BRUGES - REVIEW

In Bruges ( English,2008)

Director: Martin McDonagh

Cast: Colin Farrell , Brendon Gleeson , Ralph Fieness

This is a crime story , which is different in the sense that you don't really get to to watch lots of normal crime related stuff like chase scenes , shootouts , etc.

The story is based on two hit men , Ray ( Colin Farrell) and Ken ( Brendon Gleeson) , who complete a mission in London. The mission does not go as per plan , and their boss decides to pack them off somewhere else , to hide for sometime.

They then end up in Bruges , Belgium . This is a city which has a lot of history associated with it. The duo , try to while away their time sight-seeing. Ken is the senior among the two , and appears to be rather intrigued by the immense cultural heritage which Bruges has on offer. Ray however , being the young-jumpy type does not really like the city as it's rather dull.

The two of them think that all they have to do is lay low in Bruges for sometime , and get back to London upon their boss , Harry's orders. But little do they know that Harry has completely different plans for them.I will not dwell any longer on the story , as it will make the movie lose its unpredictability quotient.

Ray 's mind is always troubled , as he cannot get over the horrid incident which happened in London , in which he ends up shooting the intended victim , and also an innocent victim. He also has the pleasure of a brief romantic interlude with Chloe , a drug dealer.

Ken , comes across as a man of culture , although he is a ruthless murderer. He is very impressed with Bruges , and likes it a lot , and enjoys his stay , unlike Ray.

The movie is not your conventional Crime type. The movie focuses more on the psyche of the hitmen , instead of the actual murder , and follows the ensuing series of events which unfold after the murder.

The acting is really good. Colin Farrell comes up with a rather fine act , and provides some comic relief with his witty dialogues. He easily fits into the role of Ray , and appears very convincing in his act. Another fact is that the character of Ray is Irish , and so is Farrell.

Brendon Gleeson , as Ken , is a very likeable character. The movie tries to make a point that even hard criminals , have a humane side to them , and Gleeson comes up with a brilliant performance , justifying the fact.

However,the most interesting character in the movie is that of Harry , played by Ralph Fiennes. Harry is a ruthless boss , but someone who is cut and right in his modus operandi. The characterization of Harry is easily one of the best things about the movie and Fiennes is simply brilliant.

The midget's character seems rather unwanted in the earlier stages of the movie. But he is rather likable , and is of particular significance in the climax scene.

The movie has few let-downs. The romance between Chloe and Ray seems unwanted , as far as the screenplay goes , but nevertheless adds to the atmosphere. Clemence Poesy , as Chloe is a class act , albeit in very brief role. The screenplay could have been a bit faster , but is compensated for by the excellent acting and witty humor , especially on the part of Ray.

The dialogues are very simple , yet funny in rather sarcastic way. Watch out for the Clock tower sequence in the first half. The climax scene is one of the best endings I have come across in a long time . "You've got to stick to your principles" is what the climax is all about.

Technically the movie is rather minimalistic. However the town of Bruges is highlighted beautifully. There is nothing great about the movie. However , it holds your interest , and there are only a few dull moments. Watch it for the amazing characterization, especially of Ken and Harry.

I will give it 3.5 out of 5 , as I firmly believe that characterization is the foundation of any movie and this does not let me down . And am someone who sticks to my principles ( Pay attention to the climax scene , and you 'll understand my last statement)

Verdict: Definitely worth a watch . 3.5/5