McDormand inspired central character in ‘Three Billboards’

LOS ANGELES - The central character in “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri’’ probably wouldn’t exist without Frances McDormand, and writer-director Martin McDonagh says such strong characters and actresses are something to celebrate in an industry reeling from revelations of widespread sexual misconduct. The film was nominated for six Golden Globes and four Screen Actors Guild Awards this week. McDormand inspired the film’s foul-mouthed protagonist Mildred Hayes, who attempts to shame the town sheriff into solving the yearold rape and murder of her teenage daughter. She posts three billboards on the edge of town to taunt him. McDonagh said he saw “something in real life that was very similar to what we see on our billboards’’ 20 years ago and was mystified.