Review of The Power of the Dog (2021) by Lisalr1 — 13 Dec 2021

"The Power of the Dog," is the latest film from director Jane Campion ("Bright Star," "The Piano"), based on the 1967 novel of the same name by Thomas Savage. The movie features a masterful, intense lead performance by actor Benedict Cumberbatch ("The Courier," "The Imitation Game," TV's "Sherlock") who plays Phil Burbank, 1 of 2 brothers, the other brother, George Burbank played by Jesse Plemons, who own and run a ranch in 1925 Montana.

Phil is an intimadating, bullying and manipulative character, while brother, George is more timid, gentle and soft spoken. When George meets widow, marries and brings home new wife, Rose Gordon (Kirsten Dunst) & her son, Peter Gordon (Kodi Smit-McPhee), Phil proceeds to taunt and torment his new in-laws, until he discovers the possibility of new found love.

Phil takes the quiet-natured, awkward young Peter under his wings, with a twist to the plot that features an ending you may, or may not, have seen coming. Rural New Zealand replaces Montana and is beautifully photographed by Cinematographer Ari Wegner, with a brilliantly crafted, haunting score by Jonny Greenwood.