The Power of the Dog (2021)

Top comments

1. 

   Siskoid

   Visually more restrained than other movies in Jane Campion's filmography, The Power of the Dog deserves the treatment because it really is about repression. It looks like a macho western, but there's a lot bubbling under the surface, and sometimes ON the surface (Campion has never met a phallic symbol she didn't want to cast in this movie). Benedict Cumberbatch plays a misogynistic bully terrorizing his brother's wife (is there an Oedipus Complex equivalent for brothers?) and her wimpy son from another marriage, at least until he takes a shine to the boy. Or does he? And I swear, the third act had me wondering who was playing who. The sexual innuendo was really quite funny, but you couldn't really laugh because the scenes exuded menace. It's certainly a movie that's going out of its way to find the wrong audience, a non-action drama despite the cowboy dress, actually set a lot later than most, but then the leads aren't really what they seem, so it all fits. I think Campion is very psychological director and I respect her work immensely. It's rarely what you think it will be, and the better for it. 2 years 11 months ago
2. 

   frankqb

   Amazing cinematography, amazing performances, solid narrative. I could see some people calling this movie slow, but I'd say it's worth the effort to stick with it. This might win a few Oscars. Cinematography has to be a shoo in. 3 years 1 month ago
3. 

   Simon Lavender

   Slow burning character developer as opposed to a story I'd say.
   It felt like four different characters developed one by one, like an anthology/one short story after another. Inventive and aware it's based on a book.
   Has an Of Mice and Men meets Brokeback Mountain quality.
   Not sure about the score either. It's good but not great. 6/10 3 years 1 month ago

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