Theme Of Redemption In Martin Mcdonagh's In Bruges

1089 Words3 Pages

Martin McDonagh employs multiple techniques in In Bruges to express to the viewer various ideas surrounding redemption. These ideas are explored largely through the characterisation of Ray as he seeks forgiveness for his crimes while wishing to survive the enormity of them. The character of Ken is used as Ray’s moral counterpart who serves to protect Ray from Harry’s own idea of redemption, demonstrating that redemption is an individual concept that differs from person to person. The cinematography is used to further enforce these ideas along with other techniques such as mise-en-scène, sound and editing. All this works to accentuate McDonagh’s exploration of redemption and ultimately enable the audience to grasp a firmer understanding of the film. McDonagh alludes to religious references surrounding Christianity and …show more content…

The tone of the film is immediately set as melancholy and regretful: it begins with Ray’s narration who speaks to the audience almost as if he is prophesying events the viewer is yet to discover. This is further cemented by the reaction Ray has to Bruges which is contrasted with Ken’s reverence for it. The idea that Bruges is a representation of purgatory is expressed through the agitation Ray experiences as well as the way he is eventually drawn back to it (McCracken). Through the dialogue between Ken and Harry: “like a fairy tale ... I know I’m awake but I feel like I’m in a dream”, it is reinstated to the viewer that Ray is trapped in a place where “sinners are stuck in an unresolved, spiritual disequilibrium” until he is redeemed (McCracken). This is clearly shown through the conversation he has with Ken in the scene where they are viewing the dark Bosch paintings in the medieval museum (McCracken). This scene essentially explains the choices Ray has left. Ken even mentions the idea of purgatory and through subtext the audience understands that Bruges is, in fact, a final chance they both have to redeem themselves, be killed or live in guilt

Open Document