Six Shooter

Starring: Brendan Gleeson, Ruaidhri Conroy, David Wilmot, Domhnall Gleeson, David Murray
Directed by: Martin McDonagh
Rating: Not rated
Genre: Short, Comedy, Drama
Length: 27 minutes
2005

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: A man (Brendan Gleeson) mourning the loss of his wife boards a train where he encounters a strange, challenging man (Ruaidhri Conroy).

Review:

Tim: Martin McDonagh's 2005 short film, Six Shooter won the Academy Award for Best Short Film, Live Action. It showcases glimpses of his talent and his unique take on filmmaking, features that would show up much more visibly in his later films. This is a small film but it feels much bigger than its 27 minute run time. It tells an involved, unexpected, intriguing story. I had fun with the film from start to finish.

It helps to have Brendan Gleeson in the lead role. I've always been a fan of Gleeson's- his acting just seems so effortless, his performances feel so real. He gives another one of those performances here in this short film. He's really good in the lead role and you identify with and care about him. I have to give immense credit to Ruaidhri Conroy. He steals every scene he's in. The rapid dialogue, the difficult-to-understand accent, the humor and comedic timing- it's one of the most remarkable short film performances I've seen. I laughed continually at his character, even when there was a chill to his words and deeds. He played off Gleeson well. So much of the film's success comes from giving Gleeson and Conroy opportunities to act together- they are so different, but interacted exceptionally well. Their differences drove much of the film forward. Also, be sure to look for Gleeson's son, Domhnall Gleeson in a small supporting role.

What strikes me most profoundly about Six Shooter is that McDonagh crafts a very different story that feels larger than the movie's run time. I'm not sure I am wise or informed enough to fully appreciate how this film was so different than other short films, or why it was selected to win an Academy Award. What I do know is that the movie is entertaining and funny, but it's also dark and tragic. McDonagh's ability to combine these together felt unique and it's the major reason why I enjoyed this short film so much.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating- N/A



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