Netflix's 'masterpiece' western with 'career best' performance leaves fans 'shaken'

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The Power of the Dog is a 2021 western drama film directed by Jane Campion and based on the 1967 novel of the same name by Thomas Savage. It stars Benedict Cumberbatch, Kirsten Dunst, Jesse Plemons and Kodi Smit-McPhee

A contemporary western movie on Netflix, "The Power of the Dog," has resonated deeply with its audience due to its poignant examination of toxic masculinity and emotional suppression. The film, inspired by the 1967 novel, delivered a gut-wrenching portrayal of the lives of Phil and George Burbank in 2021. Immersed in the rugged landscape of 1920s Montana, this pair of cowboy brothers manage their family's ranch until love enters the scene and sets off a chain of transformative events.

Starring the formidable Benedict Cumberbatch as Phil, the harsher sibling, he proceeds to sadistically target George's new family, aiming to ruin their bond. Phil develops an animosity towards his brother's wife and son, employing his coarse demeanor to provoke and disturb them. A Rotten Tomatoes critic said: "This movie may be hard to watch at times, but it is worth it.



Great atmosphere, an incredibly compelling story, amazing acting and characters that are genuinely interesting and multidimensional." Another review added: "The Power of the Dog had me emotionally invested and left me shaken. Definitely recommend this movie.

", reports the Express . The film stood out in cinematic history as the first directed by a woman to secure over 10 Oscar nods, earning an astonishing 12 nominations at the 94th Academy Awards. Jane Chapman clinched the Best Director at the Oscars, alongside accolades at both the BAFTA and Golden Globe ceremonies in the same year.

The Netflix hit The Power of the Dog, featuring Sherlock star Benedict Cumberbatch, has earned high praise across the board for its quietly intense drama. One critic said: "Much has already been said about Jane Campion's western masterpiece, and for good reason. It is indeed truly great.

Benedict Cumberbatch gives a career-best performance." Another added: "The ultimate slow-burn revenge tale. Packed with powerful performances, The Power of the Dog makes up for its lack of gunfights with building tension and well-earned twists in the story.

" Co-stars Jesse Plemons and Kirsten Dunst deliver compelling portrayals that captivated audiences, one viewer labeled their acting as "solid" while others raved about an "incredible movie with incredible performances". Some felt underwhelmed by the film's "very slow" pace and perceived action deficit, voicing critiques such as, "Decent story with a slow pace and an unsettling subtext that slowly creeps up on you until it unfolds into something sinister." Patience was a virtue not all had, with some saying: "Very slow movie.

You keep waiting for something to happen". While another added: "Interesting ending and story. I'm just not sure if it was worth sitting through.

" For those intrigued by Oscar-nominated dramas, The Power of the Dog is available now on Netflix..