The Power of the Dog
The film centres on a difficult family relationship; Phil, a bully whose erratic behaviour is encouraged by his workers, is jealous of his brother George (Jesse Plemons). He often refers to George as ‘Fatso’ throughout the film.
When Rose, who feels inferior due to her working-class status, arrives at their cold ranch, Phil’s attitude takes on a new, creepy form, as the love between George and Rose begins to flourish. But as the layers start to peel . . . the film moves from this relationship to a study of Phil’s character through his friendship with Pete – a shy and lanky youth. Phil begins to feel stirrings from his past, which hint at intimate relationship with his former mentor, the late Bronco Henry.
Jane Campion keeps the film at a steady pace and flashes out moments of real drama, using the beauty of the ranch and its surroundings to carry on the story. Filmed in Campion’s native New Zealand (which doubles as Montana) keeps the journey going along with Jonny Greenwood’s score of scruffy, low guitar notes and sad strings.
Cumberbatch is great with his dark scary eyes in this excellent piece . . . which lived up to the hype. This is the first time Campion has presented her filmmaking through a male perspective. Campion still remains a master of sensitive storytelling, delivering a terrific study of masculinity rooted in fear.
The film is available on Netflix.
