Twelve years since directing her previous year “Bright Star,” Oscar winner Jane Campion returns to craft a western film that is very slow in pacing, but what makes it work is the incredible performances by its main cast. Jane Campion’s direction features gorgeous landscapes and cinematography that rivals her breakthrough movie “The Piano.” Benedict Cumberbatch gives a fantastic performance as the main character who bears similarities to the dark western characters played by Clint Eastwood and John Wayne. Kirsten Dunst gives an excellent performance as a single mom struggling to raise her only son while battling her inner demons. Also delivering outstanding performances in the film are Kodi Smit-McPhee as Dunst’s son and Jesse Plemons as Cumberbatch’s brother. “The Power of the Dog” may not be for everyone due to its slow pacing. However, thanks to Jane Campion’s excellent direction, a great score by Jonny Greenwood, and fantastic performances by Benedict Cumberbatch, Kirsten Dunst, Kodi Smit-McPhee, and Jesse Plemons, “The Power of the Dog” is a great film. Despite not making a movie within the past twelve years, Jane Campion took her time and came back when the time was right and the timing was perfect.
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