The Power of the Dog Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A cowboy bullies his brother’s wife until her son gives him a fatal disease with a rope, all while mountains that vaguely look like dogs are involved.

🍿 The Power of the Dog: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Introduction to the Burbank Brothers

In 1925 Montana, wealthy rancher brothers Phil (Benedict Cumberbatch) and George Burbank (Jesse Plemons) are introduced. Phil is charismatic but inspires fear, while George is kind but often overshadowed by his brother. The brothers run a successful cattle ranch, maintaining a traditional cowboy lifestyle.

Rose and Peter Enter the Picture

During a cattle drive, Phil and George meet Rose Gordon (Kirsten Dunst), a widow who owns a restaurant, and her son Peter (Kodi Smit-McPhee), who displays a sensitive and effeminate nature. Phil openly mocks Peter, while George comforts Rose, leading to a burgeoning romance between them. Phil warns George that Rose is only after his money.

Marriage and Ranch Life

George and Rose marry, much to Phil’s disapproval, and Rose and Peter move to the Burbank ranch. Phil is openly hostile towards Rose, believing she is using George for his wealth. Phil’s behavior drives Rose to alcoholism, while Peter, a medical student, faces taunting from Phil and his ranch hands.

A Shifting Dynamic

As time passes, Peter comes across Phil bathing and finds magazines with Bronco Henry’s name on them depicting nude men. A surprising shift occurs when Phil starts to mentor Peter, offering to teach him ranching skills and braid a lasso. Phil is impressed by Peter’s ability to perceive the shape of a dog in the mountains.

The Anthrax and the Lasso

Peter discovers a diseased cattle carcass and cuts into its hide. Rose’s alcoholism worsens, and in defiance of Phil, she gives away hides to local traders. With no hides to finish Peter’s lasso, Peter offers Phil the infected hide, leading to Phil contracting anthrax. Phil dies, leaving George and Rose to rebuild their lives.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Phil Burbank (Benedict Cumberbatch): A charismatic but cruel rancher whose repressed desires and toxic masculinity lead to his downfall.
• Rose Gordon (Kirsten Dunst): A widowed innkeeper who marries George Burbank, only to be tormented by Phil and succumb to alcoholism.
• George Burbank (Jesse Plemons): A kind and gentle rancher who marries Rose, striving for connection and stability but struggles with confidence.
• Peter Gordon (Kodi Smit-McPhee): Rose’s intelligent and observant son who carefully plans and executes a revenge against Phil to protect his mother.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Peter Gordon: “What kind of man would I be if I didn’t help my mother? If I didn’t save her?” – Peter’s opening narration establishes his protective intent towards his mother.
• Phil Burbank: “A man was made by patience in the odds against him.” – Phil imparts this tough-love lesson, reflecting his own life philosophy.
• Phil Burbank: “You know how to whistle, don’t you, Peter? You just put your lips together and… blow.” – Phil teases Peter with a loaded line, hinting at intimacy and sexual tension.
• Peter Gordon: “Deliver my soul from the sword, my darling from the power of the dog.” – Peter reads from Psalm 22:20 after Phil’s death, hinting at his role in Phil’s demise.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $35,000,000
• Domestic Gross: N/A
• Worldwide Gross: $271,009

💥 The Power of the Dog Reviews

Personal Review

I was completely mesmerized by The Power of the Dog! I loved how it slowly revealed its secrets, creating a constant sense of unease. The acting was phenomenal, especially Benedict Cumberbatch, who completely transformed into Phil Burbank. The scenery was breathtaking, and Jonny Greenwood’s score was hauntingly beautiful. The ending left me speechless and wanting to rewatch immediately to catch all the subtle clues I missed. I highly recommend this movie to anyone who appreciates thought-provoking cinema!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of Western dramas”
  • “Viewers interested in character-driven stories”
  • “Those who appreciate slow-burn narratives”
  • “Audiences who enjoy films exploring themes of toxic masculinity and repressed sexuality”
  • “Viewers of Jane Campion’s previous work”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Themes of repressed sexuality”
  • “Alcoholism”
  • “Bullying and psychological abuse”
  • “Brief rear male nudity”
  • “Animal cruelty (implied)”
  • “Suicide references”

Professional Reviews

• The New Yorker: “Campion’s direction is masterful, creating an atmosphere of simmering tension. Cumberbatch’s performance is a revelation, portraying a complex man wrestling with his inner demons. A visually stunning film that lingers in the mind long after viewing.
• RogerEbert.com: “Jane Campion crafts a haunting Western drama with impeccable performances. The film explores themes of repressed sexuality, toxic masculinity, and revenge with a deft hand. Kirsten Dunst delivers a heartbreaking portrayal of a woman struggling to survive in a hostile environment. The film is slow-paced but richly rewarding for patient viewers.
• Variety: “Benedict Cumberbatch delivers an unforgettable performance as the cruel and complex Phil Burbank. The film is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant exploration of the American West. The Power of the Dog is a triumph for Jane Campion, solidifying her status as one of the great filmmakers of our time.

Audience Reactions

Benedict Cumberbatch’s performance was captivating and deeply disturbing.: The movie explores complex themes of masculinity and repressed desire with impressive depth.

The stunning cinematography and evocative score created a palpable sense of atmosphere.: Viewers appreciated the film’s slow burn and deliberate pacing, allowing for deep character exploration.

Overall Consensus: The Power of the Dog is a critically acclaimed psychological drama praised for its stunning visuals, powerful performances, and exploration of complex themes.

Awards

1. Academy Award (Best Director)- 2022
2. BAFTA Award (Best Film)- 2022
3. BAFTA Award (Best Director)- 2022
4. Golden Globe Award (Best Motion Picture – Drama)- 2022
5. Golden Globe Award (Best Director)- 2022

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Jane Campion hadn’t directed a feature film since 2009’s ‘Bright Star’ before taking on ‘The Power of the Dog’.”
• “Kirsten Dunst actually learned to play the piano for her role, mastering two pieces before one was cut from the final film.”
• “The film, while set in Montana, was primarily filmed in New Zealand, utilizing the landscape to mimic the American West.”

🖥️ How to Watch The Power of the Dog?

The Power of the Dog is available to stream exclusively on Netflix. While it is not currently available for purchase on physical media or through digital retailers like Prime Video or Apple TV, check back as these options may become available in the future. Subscription to Netflix is required for streaming.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed The Power of the Dog, you might like these similar films:

• Brokeback Mountain (2005): Explores themes of repressed homosexuality in the American West and the tragic consequences of societal expectations.
• There Will Be Blood (2007): Features a complex and deeply flawed protagonist driven by ambition and inner turmoil in a harsh, turn-of-the-century setting.
• Giant (1956): A sprawling epic set on a Texas ranch, dealing with themes of masculinity, class, and the changing American landscape.
• Manchester by the Sea (2016): Deals with themes of grief, guilt and repressed emotion, set against a stark landscape, with complex character studies and emotional performances.

🛒 The Power of the Dog Related Products

• The Power of the Dog (Thomas Savage): The original novel by Thomas Savage, offering a deeper dive into the characters and themes explored in the film. Discover the literary masterpiece that inspired the acclaimed movie.
• Cowboy Hat, Felt Western Hat: Embody the spirit of Phil Burbank with a classic felt cowboy hat. This rugged and stylish hat is perfect for Western enthusiasts. It is good for everyday wear, costume parties, stage and much more
• Banjo: Take music inspiration from the movie with a high-quality Banjo. Perfect for recreating melodies from movie.
• The Power of the Dog [Blu-ray]: Experience Jane Campion’s masterpiece in stunning high definition with the Blu-ray edition. Includes bonus content such as behind-the-scenes footage, cast interviews, and director’s commentary, offering a deeper dive into the making of the film.

🎧 Soundtrack

The Power of the Dog features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “West Alone” – performed by Jonny Greenwood
• “Detuned Banjo” – performed by Jonny Greenwood
• “Waltzes” – performed by Jonny Greenwood
• “Psalm 22” – performed by Choir
• “Katy Did” – performed by David Ward

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Benedict Cumberbatch on The Power of the Dog, Spider-Man Fan Theories & Jimmy’s Kraven Action Figure

Ever wondered what it was like for Benedict Cumberbatch to transform into Phil Burbank? In this interview on Jimmy Kimmel Live, he candidly shares his experiences and delves into the film’s intriguing themes. Don’t miss this illuminating discussion that enriches our understanding of ‘The Power of the Dog’

‘The Power of the Dog’ Stars Benedict Cumberbatch & Kodi Smit-McPhee Join the Variety Studio at TIFF

Curious about the dynamics between Phil Burbank and Peter Gordon? Join Benedict Cumberbatch and Kodi Smit-McPhee at the Variety Studio at TIFF as they discuss their characters and shed light on the film’s exploration of masculinity and vulnerability. This interview deepens our understanding of ‘The Power of the Dog’ and its thought-provoking themes.

The Power of The Dog Explained | Ending Explained

Seeking clarity on the intricate ending and the profound message behind ‘The Power of the Dog’? This well-researched explanation video breaks down the film’s complexities, enhancing your understanding and allowing you to fully appreciate the film’s depth and artistry.

Watch a Seductive Moment in ‘The Power of the Dog’ | Anatomy of a Scene

Prepare to be captivated by this in-depth analysis of a pivotal scene from ‘The Power of the Dog’ by The New York Times. With expert narration and close-up examinations, this video reveals the hidden layers of emotion and symbolism within this powerful moment, deepening your understanding of the film’s complexities.

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