The Power of the Dog released

The Power of the Dog Released: September 2, 2021 Studio: Netflix Genre: Western Box Office (numbers in millions): Domestic: -- Worldwide: 0.27 Adjusted for Inflation: Domestic: -- Worldwide: --

Directing: Jane Campion Screenwriting: Jane Campion Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Kirsten Dunst, Jesse Plemons, Kodi Smit-McPhee Review: The Power of the Dog is a Western psychological drama based on Thomas Savage’s 1961 novel. Jane Campion adapted the screenplay and directed the movie. It was given a limited theatrical release before being streamed on Netflix. It “is a thought-provoking, deep study of (toxic) masculinity surrounded by exceptional performances and truly stunning cinematography.” MSB Brothers Phil (Cumberbatch) and George Burbank (Plemons) own a ranch in 1925 Montana. George “is a kind, decent, presentable man who treats women with the utmost respect,” MSB while Phil is “the epitome of a toxic male.” MSB They meet Rose Gordon (Dunst), an inn owner. George is taken with her and they marry but Phil dislikes her, certain she only wants his brother’s money. When her teenage son Peter (Smit-McPhee) “arrives at the ranch for the summer break that the story starts going through surprising developments with a clear, shocking outcome.” MSB Phil belittles him as effeminate in an effort to cover up his own homosexuality. “When their arcs cross paths, the movie offers some of the most captivating, tense moments of the entire runtime.” MSB “Campion takes the best out of her technical crew, using the award-worthy cinematography to pull the audience closer to the complex characters. The dark, cold interiors contrast with the broad, breathtaking landscapes in a remarkable fashion.” MSB Sources: MSB MSB Reviews WK Wikipedia

Awards/Honors/Lists: Dave’s Movie Database Lists: Eras: Awards: Oscars: Wins: 1. Best Director Nominations: 12. Best Picture, Best Actor (Cumberbatch), Best Supporting Actor (Plemons), Best Supporting Actor (Smit-McPhee), Best Supporting Actress (Dunst), Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Cinematography, Best Film Editing, Best Original Score, Best Production Design, Best Sound First posted 3/2/2025.