10 Great Dark Comedy Films You Haven't Seen
7. The Guard (2011)
“I’m Irish. Racism is part of my culture.”
John Michael McDonagh’s directorial debut follows unorthodox Irish office, Gerry Boyle (Brendan Gleeson) as he nonchalantly attempts to investigate an international drug-smuggling ring, despite his apparent incompetence.
The witty, expertly written dialogue (expect nothing less from a McDonagh) gives this understated comedy the ammunition it needs for its stellar cast to provide thoroughly enjoyable performances, with Gleeson at the forefront, once again proving why he’s one of the most under-appreciated actors of his time. Not many can make a womanising, drug-abusing, racist this likeable, yet Gleeson does it with ease.
If you’re searching for an alternative to the high concept blockbusters, reboots and never ending sequels being churned out of Hollywood, look no further than this incredibly intelligent and self-aware addition to the British film industry.