Watch Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri

Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri is a critically acclaimed movie released in 2017 that tells the story of a mother who sets out to seek justice for her daughter's brutal murder. The film is directed by Martin McDonagh and stars Frances McDormand, Woody Harrelson, and Sam Rockwell in lead roles. At the core of the movie is the character of Mildred Hayes, played by McDormand. A divorced mother of two, Mildred is devastated by the rape and murder of her teenage daughter Angela, and frustrated by the lack of progress in the investigation. In a desperate bid to get the police to do more, she rents three abandoned billboards on the outskirts of town and puts up a provocative message accusing the local police chief, William Willoughby (Harrelson), of complacency in the case.

The billboards trigger a chain reaction of events that spiral out of control, affecting everyone in the small Missouri town of Ebbing. Willoughby, a compassionate family man battling terminal cancer, tries to reason with Mildred but finds himself caught in the crossfire of her anger and frustration. Meanwhile, his hot-headed and racist subordinate, Officer Dixon (Rockwell), takes offense at the billboards and retaliates against Mildred and the town's African American community.

As Mildred refuses to back down, tensions escalate, reaching a violent climax that forces everyone to confront their demons and reassess their beliefs. Throughout the film, the characters grapple with questions of morality, justice, and personal responsibility, as they navigate the aftermath of tragedy and come to terms with their own flaws and limitations.

One of the strengths of the film is its powerful and nuanced performances. McDormand delivers a tour-de-force portrayal of Mildred, blending vulnerability, anger, and determination in a complex and multifaceted character. Harrelson's Willoughby is equally compelling, conveying the struggles of a good man facing his own mortality and limitations. And Rockwell's Dixon brings a surprising depth to his initially loathsome character, showing glimpses of empathy and growth in unexpected ways.

The film also features a strong supporting cast, including Lucas Hedges as Mildred's son Robbie, Caleb Landry Jones as the billboard owner Red Welby, and John Hawkes as Mildred's abusive ex-husband. Peter Dinklage, Zeljko Ivanek, and Clarke Peters also appear in memorable roles.

Another aspect of the film that stands out is its setting and cinematography. McDonagh skillfully evokes the bleak beauty of rural Missouri, with its rolling hills, dilapidated buildings, and wide open spaces. The film's muted color palette and evocative score create a haunting atmosphere that lingers long after the credits roll.

Overall, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri is a deeply affecting and thought-provoking movie that explores complex themes with sensitivity, humor, and raw emotion. It is a testament to the power of outstanding performances, writing, and direction, and a must-see for anyone who appreciates great cinema.

Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri is a 2017 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 55 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.1 and a MetaScore of 88.