First Cow Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Two dudes in the 1820s become besties and start a baked goods empire based on stolen milk, proving that the American Dream is built on lactose larceny.

🍿 First Cow: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Introduction to Cookie and King-Lu

Set in the Oregon Territory in the 1820s, the film introduces Otis “Cookie” Figowitz, a kind and gentle cook working for a group of rough fur trappers. He struggles to connect with his harsh surroundings and the demanding trappers. One day, while foraging in the forest, Cookie encounters King-Lu, a Chinese immigrant fleeing from Russians. Cookie helps King-Lu, setting the stage for an unlikely friendship.

An Unlikely Partnership

Some time later, Cookie and King-Lu reconnect at a trading post. Recognizing their shared desire for a better life, they decide to form a business partnership. The arrival of the first cow in the territory, owned by a wealthy landowner named Chief Factor, provides them with a unique opportunity. They devise a risky plan to secretly milk the cow and use the milk to bake delicious oily cakes, which they sell at the trading post.

Success and Growing Risks

Their business becomes surprisingly successful, with the settlers craving the taste of Cookie’s baked goods. The unique flavor reminds them of home. However, their success is built on a dangerous secret: stealing milk from Chief Factor’s prized cow. As their business grows, so does the risk of being caught, putting their friendship and future in jeopardy.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Cookie (John Magaro): A gentle and skilled cook who forms an unlikely friendship and business partnership with King-Lu in the Oregon Territory.
• King-Lu (Orion Lee): A resourceful Chinese immigrant who partners with Cookie to create a successful baking business based on stolen milk.
• The Cow (Evie): The prized milking cow belonging to Chief Factor, whose milk becomes essential to Cookie and King-Lu’s business.
• Lloyd (Ewen Bremner): A local character in the Oregon Territory
• Chief Factor (Toby Jones): The wealthy landowner who owns the first cow and eventually discovers Cookie and King-Lu’s scheme.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• King-Lu: “We have to take what we can when the taking is good.” – He says this while convincing Cookie to steal milk from the cow to start their business.
• King-Lu: “It’s the getting started that’s the puzzle. No way for a poor man to start.” – Reflecting on the barriers to economic opportunity and the need for leverage.
• Chief Factor: “I taste London.” – Said after tasting Cookie’s biscuits, highlighting the longing for home and civilization in the frontier.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $3 million
• Domestic Gross: $101,068
• Worldwide Gross: $1.38 million

💥 First Cow Reviews

Personal Review

I absolutely loved ‘First Cow.’ It’s a slow burn, but the connection between Cookie and King-Lu is so genuine and heartwarming. The scene where they share the first batch of oily cakes made my heart melt. The ending was bittersweet, and I left the theater feeling a profound sense of connection to these characters and their simple lives. It felt so authentic and real!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of Kelly Reichardt’s films”
  • “Viewers interested in historical dramas”
  • “Those who appreciate character-driven stories”
  • “Viewers seeking thought-provoking indie films”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Brief violence”
  • “Mild language”
  • “Themes of theft and survival”

Professional Reviews

• IndieWire: “A beautifully understated film that examines friendship and the early days of capitalism in the Oregon Territory. Reichardt’s patient direction and the performances of Magaro and Lee create a deeply immersive experience.
• The Guardian: “A masterclass in subtle storytelling. First Cow is a tender, melancholic tale of two outsiders finding connection and purpose in a harsh world. The film’s attention to detail and authentic portrayal of the era are truly remarkable.
• Variety: “Kelly Reichardt delivers a quietly profound film. While the pacing may deter some, patient viewers will be rewarded with a thought-provoking exploration of friendship, ambition, and the darker side of the American Dream.

Audience Reactions

The quiet, intimate portrayal of male friendship resonated deeply with viewers.: Many praised the film’s gentle pace and its focus on character development over action.

Viewers appreciated the film’s authentic depiction of the Oregon Territory in the 1820s.: The attention to historical detail and the realistic portrayal of frontier life were widely commended.

Overall Consensus: First Cow is a critically acclaimed, slow-paced drama that explores themes of friendship, ambition, and the early days of capitalism in the Oregon Territory. While its deliberate pacing may not appeal to all viewers, those who appreciate character-driven stories and historical accuracy will find it a rewarding experience.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film is based on the novel ‘The Half-Life’ by Jonathan Raymond, who also co-wrote the screenplay with director Kelly Reichardt.”
• “Director Kelly Reichardt is known for her minimalist style and focus on character-driven narratives, which is evident in ‘First Cow’.”
• “The film was shot in the 4:3 aspect ratio, giving it a unique visual aesthetic that evokes a sense of intimacy and historical authenticity.”

🖥️ How to Watch First Cow?

First Cow is available for streaming on various platforms. You can find it for rent or purchase on Prime Video, Apple TV, and other major digital retailers. Check your local listings for availability as offerings may change periodically. Some streaming services may offer it as part of a subscription package.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed First Cow, you might like these similar films:

• McCabe & Mrs. Miller (1971): Shares a similar revisionist Western approach, focusing on the daily lives and business ventures of ordinary people in a frontier setting.
• Meek’s Cutoff (2010): Also directed by Kelly Reichardt, it explores the harsh realities of westward expansion and the struggles of pioneers in the Oregon Territory.
• Nomadland (2020): Both explore themes of economic hardship and survival on the fringes of American society.

🛒 First Cow Related Products

• First Cow (Blu-ray): Own the critically acclaimed film on Blu-ray, featuring stunning visuals and bonus content. A must-have for fans of independent cinema and historical dramas.
• The Half-Life by Jonathan Raymond: Delve deeper into the story with the novel that inspired the film. Explore the characters and themes in greater detail with additional backstories.
• 1820s Oregon Territory Cookbook: Discover recipes inspired by the era of ‘First Cow.’ Learn how to make traditional dishes and experience the culinary history of the Oregon Territory.
• Oregon Territory Historical Map: A vintage-style map of the Oregon Territory in the 1820s. Perfect for history buffs and fans of the film.

🎧 Soundtrack

First Cow features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Hog of the Forsaken” – performed by Michael Hurley
• “First Cow” – performed by William Tyler

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

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Four Favorites with Kelly Reichardt

Ever wonder what movies influenced the director of ‘First Cow’? Check out this quick interview where Kelly Reichardt shares her four favorite films – you might be surprised by her picks and it’ll totally change how you see her work!

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