Rarely do we get a Netflix film that excels and last year, it was “The Power of the Dog”. It’s the kind of film that’s designed to grab the attention of award-giving bodies and in this regard, it was able to formulate a deep, well-crafted tale of power, love, deceit, revenge and more.
It’s 1925 and two wealthy ranchers from Montana, Phil (Benedict Cumberbatch) and George (Jesse Plemons) Burbank, meet Rose, a widow (Kirsten Dunst), and her effeminate son Peter (Kodi Smit-McPhee). Unexpectedly, George takes a liking for the widow and eventually decides to marry her. Phil doesn’t agree with George and thinks that she is only marrying him to get a piece of their wealth. As Phil’s and Rose’s worlds unavoidably collide, deep secrets are finally uncovered.
Admnittedly, “The Power of the Dog” just never got our attention when it came out on Netflix late last year. Something about it just didn’t peak our interest even if we knew it was a film being talked about as award-worthy. But we’re glad we finally had the time to take a look at it. Because now we get its power. It’s a nuanced and subtle film that could be taken in so many ways. From revenge to bullying to even closeted sexual tensions, the film had everything to offer to those who are patient enough to go through its slow and rough first half. At the helm of “the Power of the Dog’s” success was its ensemble cast. Specifically, we found Benedict Cumberbatch, Kirsten Dunst and Kodi Smit-McPhee as providing award-worthy performances. Jesse Plemons was a bit off but it seemed that his character wasn’t given the same time and material as the other leads. This also translates to iour slight misgivings with the film’s writing. The first half was slow, the second half was intriguing, and the climactic last quarter hour was amazing. But the pacing between these sections were choppy and abrupt. Overall though, “The Power of the Dog” was a rewarding experience that will shake its viewers by the time the credits roll.
Rating: 4 reels
Why you should watch it:
- that ending was unexpected but awesome
- amazing performance from the cast especially Benedict Cumberbatch
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