In terms of character study, this film is only rivaled by a few other movies in the last 30 years. Perhaps "The Godfather", maybe "Patton" and a very few others would approach a par on level of character study. Each one was superb, and right on cue. The dark comedy timing was excellent, in addition to the extreme nature and behavior of those involved, and of course the flawless flow of the story line.

William Macy's character portrayal makes one despise him immediately, for being an idiotic childish fool (while in real life Macy is an intelligent gentleman); and Frances McDormand's character is priceless as a very sincere, and very ethnic Norwegian cop. These, in addition to the entire cast, make this movie one of the most memorable of all time. The film's presentation is suspenseful, gripping, and entertaining from start to finish, mainly because of the strategy of the story, in addition to the built in environmental effects it possesses. This feel is further emphasized by the musical accompaniment and timing, and fine acting and reacting within a rather provincial setting.

Obviously, part of the comedic aspect of this otherwise horrific story is Macy's incredibly audacious hatched plan to begin with, and then the subsequent abilities of everyone else around him to respond according to his own character. In addition, Jerry Lundgren's behavior carries (and causes) the story's unfolding of events in an unbelievably believable way. But, just out of curiosity, where could one ever find such a collection of extreme personalities and behaviors coincidentally converging on one place at the same time? I suppose something similar happened 11 years later in "Smokin' Aces", but in a different context. But even then, that (Smokin' Aces' character development) was not as intriguing.

In addition to McDormand's very deserved Oscar in this film, it is not incomprehensible that Macy, and others, could have or should have received nominations as well. For anyone who hasn't seen a very involving and entertaining movie in a while, buy the DVD of this one. It's a winner in every way.