'The Power of the Dog' (12)

Director: Jane Campion

Cast: Benedict Cumberbatch, Kirsten Dunst, Jesse Plemons, Kodi Smit-McPhee

Where can I watch?: The Power of the Dog is in cinemas and available to stream on Netflix

Rating: 4/5

Review: There was a point while watching The Power of the Dog when I realised I had been completely enticed by the story. Initially, I had been somewhat fidgety, wondering if a crash-bang blockbuster would have perhaps been more appropriate viewing for the lull between Christmas and New Year - but then I fell under Jane Campion's spell. Slowly, but surely, the tension and intrigue started to build between the four central protagonists, to the point where you know someone will fire the proverbial gun, but who? And when?

At the heart of the film is Benedict Cumberbatch as Phil Burbank, an educated ranch man, a bully and a misogynist. Cold and menacing, his slow, deliberate movements inspire both fear and awe in those around him - for a viewer, he is as engaging as he is despicable. Determined to torment his brother's (Jesse Plemons) new wife, Rose Gordon (Kirsten Dunst), and her effeminate teenage son, Peter (Kodi Smit-McPhee), Burbank stalks the ranch house in his muddy clothes and tattered boots with the threatening spurs, challenging Rose to a taut banjo versus piano 'duet'. Yet, despite his obvious cruelty, you can't help but soften towards Burbank as his relationship with Peter develops - could his new nephew redeem him?

The Power of the Dog also delights visually and aurally. The beauty of the landscape is lovingly shot by director of photography Ari Wegner, while Jonny Greenwood's haunting original score provides the perfect accompaniment to each painterly frame. The clothes look believably tired and tattered by the ranch lifestyle, to the point where you could almost imagine what they might feel like. The whole thing really is an intricate work of art.

A Must-Watch?: It's clear why The Power of the Dog has made its way into so many end of year Top 10s. Masterfully shot and painstakingly crafted, this slow-burning cowboy drama is strangely enticing and beautifully poetic in equal measure.

Comments

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