The Power of the Dog
The Power of the Dog

Movie spotlight

The Power of the Dog

2021
Movie
127 min
English

A domineering but charismatic rancher wages a war of intimidation on his brother's new wife and her teen son, until long-hidden secrets come to light.

Insights

IMDb6.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes94%
Metacritic87
Google Users88%
Director: Jane CampionGenres: Drama, Western, Romance

Plot Summary

In 1920s Montana, a charismatic rancher, Phil Burbank, torments his brother's new wife and her sensitive son, unleashing a complex dance of repressed desires and psychological manipulation. As Phil's cruelty intensifies, unexpected connections begin to form, challenging the harsh facade he presents to the world. The film explores themes of masculinity, hidden love, and the destructive nature of secrets in the unforgiving landscape of the American West.

Critical Reception

The Power of the Dog received widespread critical acclaim, particularly for its direction, performances, cinematography, and score. Critics praised its nuanced portrayal of complex characters and its slow-burn tension, though some found its pacing deliberate. It was a major contender during awards season.

What Reviewers Say

  • Benedict Cumberbatch delivers a career-defining performance as the complex and menacing Phil Burbank.

  • Jane Campion's masterful direction crafts a visually stunning and psychologically rich Western.

  • The film's deliberate pacing and ambiguous narrative keep audiences engaged with its intricate character dynamics.

Google audience: Google users largely lauded the film for its compelling performances, atmospheric cinematography, and the skillful direction by Jane Campion. Many appreciated the thought-provoking exploration of human nature and the Western genre's conventions.

Awards & Accolades

Won the Academy Award for Best Director (Jane Campion), nominated for 11 other Academy Awards including Best Picture, Best Actor (Benedict Cumberbatch), Best Supporting Actor (Kodi Smit-McPhee), Best Supporting Actress (Kirsten Dunst). Won Golden Globe Awards for Best Motion Picture – Drama, Best Director, and Best Supporting Actor (Kodi Smit-McPhee).

Fun Fact

The film is based on the 1967 novel of the same name by Thomas Savage, which was inspired by Savage's own experiences growing up on a Montana ranch.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

6 reviews
beyondthecineramadome

beyondthecineram...

Full review: <a>https://www.tinakakadelis.com/beyond-the-cinerama-dome/2021/12/28/not-quiet-on-the-western-front-the-power-of-the-dog-review<a> The film centers on two brothers, Phil (Benedict Cumberbatch) and George Burbank (Jesse Plemm...

CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

Brothers "Phil" (Benedict Cumberbatch) and "George" (Jesse Plemons) are the bit chalk-and-cheese brothers who own a successful cattle ranch. On a trip to town, "Phil" upsets the owner of the hotel "Rose" (an effective Kirstin Dunst) after h...

Adriano

Adriano

The ending does not match the pacing of the the entire film at all. It's almost abrupt - and not in a terribly satisfying way. It could have been 30 minutes shorter if it did less artful shots of wheat or a horse standing. Or at least for l...

Giovanni

Giovanni

**Full Explanation and Analysis at Spotamovie.com - The Story** - The Power of the Dog, a book written by Thomas Savage in 1967, inspires the film. It’s not your typical western. No guns are involved, but something more complex and psycholo...

badelf

badelf

Jane Campion's direction is top-notch, beautifully shot by Ari Wegner, and Johnny Greenwood's score fits like a soft leather glove. But that script - oh so Hollywood and oh so boring!! I want my 127 minutes back.

Manuel São Bento

Manuel São Bento

FULL SPOILER-FREE REVIEW @ https://www.msbreviews.com/movie-reviews/the-power-of-the-dog-spoiler-free-review "The Power of the Dog is a thought-provoking, deep study of (toxic) masculinity surrounded by exceptional performances and truly...