Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri

Seven months after her daughter's murder remains unsolved, Mildred Hayes publicly challenges the town's prideful police chief by raising three roadside billboards that question his commitment to justice. Her message stirs a volatile mix of outrage and curiosity, turning a quiet Missouri community into a pressure cooker. Chief Bill Willoughby, trying to manage bad press and internal strain, faces a stubborn public image and personal demons. The confrontation pulls in his second in command, Officer Jason Dixon, a volatile young man whose temper and loyalties complicate every move. As the feud intensifies, neighbors pick sides and old wounds flare, testing mercy and resolve in unexpected ways. Mildred's gambit rattles the town and tests loyalties in the days that follow closely.

Released in 2017, the film is directed by Martin McDonagh, who also wrote the screenplay. It draws on his darkly comic sensibility rather than any source material, presenting a tightly wound plot anchored by strong performances and restrained, precise dialogue.

It grossed $162,729,321 worldwide from a budget of $15,000,000, signaling a solid return for a dramatic crime story. The numbers reflect broad audience appeal across the United States and international markets, including strong legs in art-house and indie venues worldwide.

The film's awards haul includes two Academy Awards, with Frances McDormand winning Best Actress and Sam Rockwell taking Best Supporting Actor. It earned multiple nominations across major categories, including best screenplay and acting, underscoring the film's sharp dialogue, character work, and emotional punch. That resonated with audiences and critics alike.

Critics praised McDonagh's disciplined approach blending sarcasm with moral complexity. The film probes grief, accountability, and the limits of forgiveness as a town wrestles with pain and pride, showing flawed heroes and stubborn resilience without offering neat resolutions for its time and beyond. Today it invites ongoing discussion about justice.