10 Best Directorial Debut Films Of The 21st Century (So Far)
2. In Bruges
Martin McDonagh has all but established himself as one of the greatest filmmakers of the 21st century, as he specialises in crafting instant cult classics, and his directorial debut In Bruges is part and parcel of why that is the case.
The film follows the aftermath of a botched job with hitmen Ray and Ken (expertly portrayed by Irish double act Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson), who find themselves stuck in the rather dull city of Bruges whilst they await ramifications from Ralph Fiennes’ Harry, their psychotic boss.
In Bruges exhibits McDonagh’s trademark balance of comedy and tragedy that we’ve grown accustomed to. Many factors play into this film’s favour and make it as popular as it is, but one overwhelming reason for this that can’t go unstated is the on-screen chemistry shared and showcased by Farrell and Gleeson.
Ray and Ken are the total opposites of one another, but that’s what makes them work so well as a duo. Ray’s temperamental nature is contradicted by Ken’s thick skin, making them the idyllic yin and yang for one another.
Thus to make it work, In Bruges requires Farrell and Gleeson to bring their respective A-games to the table, and they all but deliver on that front as McDonagh exchanges Bruges’ characteristic peace for purgatory.