Movie Poster

I'm not sure I agree with you a hundred percent on your police work, there, Lou.

# Review

Jerry (William H. Macy) is a car salesman who hatches a plot to have his wife (Kristin Rudrüd) in order to get the ransom money from his wealthy father-in-law (Harve Presnell). Unfortunately the plan goes awry and Marge (Frances McDormand), the police chief of the small town of Brainerd, is tasked with unraveling the tragicomedic plot.

McDormand's pregnant and empathetic Marge is definitely the star of the show; I really enjoyed every scene that included her. The satirical portrayal of small-town life is also fun, although I did find the true-to-life humour to not be that funny. The supporting cast, which includes Macy's pathetic Jerry and the criminal duo of the rude Carl (Steve Buscemi) and the menacing Gaear (Peter Stormare), were fantastic as well. The writing borders on the absurd in its situations and the dialogue is very passive-aggressive (in a fun way). The vivid winter cinematography also ties the film well together (and reminds me of Canada).

# Conclusion

A well-written crime tragicomedy.

# Overall rating: 7.8

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