Love and menace combine in The Power of the Dog, the latest from writer/director Jane Campion.
Rose and her son, Peter, are in the precarious position of needing to establish themselves in a new town. Rose recently married a rancher, George, who is in business with his brother, Phil. Phil is the one that’s causing problems, poking and prodding at his new family members with motives that are difficult to discern. He could just be cruel, or it could be something even more threatening to their stability.
The film is the first feature from Campion since 2009’s Bright Star, having turned her attention in the ensuing years to the gutting series Top of the Lake. One should be happy to get whatever the The Piano director produces, but it’s extra nice to see her returning to features, particularly when it features a woman contending with a man’s world.
Her primo actress this time is Kirsten Dunst, a pairing made in heaven. Co-starring is Benedict Cumberbatch as the cruel Phil, Kodi Smit-McPhee the vulnerable Peter, and Jesse Plemons the newly married George.
It’s no surprise Campion was able to attract such talent, but what is mildly surprising is seeing footage of this so early. Netflix is handling the worldwide distribution and doesn’t have this slated for release until December, so this early trailer seems to be an attempt to build hype. Considering how often Netflix dumps movies, this seems to be a clear signal that they’ll be paying special attention to this one. Is this what they’re pinning their awards season hopes on? It wouldn’t be a bad bet.
The Power of the Dog is directed by Jane Campion and stars Kirsten Dunst, Benedict Cumberbatch, Kodi Smit-McPhee, and Jesse Plemons. It will get a limited theatrical release in the US on November 17th and will release on Netflix worldwide on December 1st, 2021.
Will you check in with these troubled souls? Let us know in the comments!
Does content like this matter to you?
Become a Member and support film journalism. Unlock access to all of Film Inquiry`s great articles. Join a community of like-minded readers who are passionate about cinema - get access to our private members Network, give back to independent filmmakers, and more.