The Power of the Dog

In 1920s Montana, charismatic alpha-male Phil runs a successful ranch with his mild-mannered brother George. The two coexist peaceably until the day George unexpectedly brings home a new bride: a local widow with a teenaged son. Phil, outraged by the union, which he sees as a threat, vows to do his utmost to tear the couple apart. Set to stunning natural backdrops, this family epic with its multiple twists and turns is a fascinating study in toxic masculinity, sibling cruelty and latent desire. The legendary New Zealand director, back after a twelve-year hiatus, has clearly lost none of her edge in her latest outing, a slow-burn revisionist western adapted from the novel by Thomas Savage. Featuring a rivetingly venomous performance from Benedict Cumberbatch and a disconcerting score by Johnny Greenwood. – Text written for Festival du nouveau cinéma

*Silver Lion – Venice Film Festival 2021

*Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2021