You and your best friend spend every waking second together—enough that everyone nearby thinks of you two as inseparable. One day, out of nowhere, your friend stops talking to you with no explanation. Confused and hurt, you chase after him for answers and gradually get more. You didn’t do anything wrong, nothing happened but “I just don’t like ya no more.” It seems so petty and ridiculous, but perhaps that was precisely the point. You are in for something unexpectedly agonizing with The Banshees of Inisherin. 

This film goes from heartwarming to heartbreaking, and even feels like complete satire at times. With exceptional acting performances, poignant dialogue that leave viewers gut-wrenched but also in fits of laughter, and breathtaking landscapes, this film has stayed with me long after watching it.

Set on a secluded Irish island in 1923, amidst the ongoing civil war on the mainland, the story begins with what seems like a minor dispute between two men. However, as the narrative unfolds, it takes unexpected turns that leave a profound impact on the viewer.

Brendan Gleeson and Colin Farrell give remarkable performances, but it was Kerry Condon and Barry Keogan who truly stole the show for me. Condon’s Siobhan was a beautiful depiction of women persevering in male-dominated societies at the time, constantly undermined yet determined to demand more. Her performance was both cheeky and heart-wrenching. Meanwhile, Keogan’s performance was phenomenal, taking the film from comedic to incredibly dark with such precision that I didn’t even realize it until the end. 

Although The Banshees of Inisherin  has received nominations this award season, it has not had much luck with wins. However, Kerry Condon and Barry Keogan both won well-deserved awards at the BAFTAs. With nine nominations at the upcoming Academy Awards, including Best Picture, I  hope the film receives the recognition it deserves, particularly for Best Original Screenplay.

Despite its seemingly simple premise, this unforgettable story explores complex themes such as betrayal, friendship, and the impact of war on everyday lives. It’s a testament to the power of storytelling and the art of filmmaking, leaving a lasting impression on anyone who watches it. Please do yourself a favor and give it a watch!

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