Based on the 1967 novel of the same name by Thomas Savage, 'The Power of the Dog' is set in 1920's Montana, though it was filmed in New Zealand, which looks more then passably like eastern Montana. Watching this film it had a taste to it, like when your having a food you haven't had in a long time and it just tastes so good, the old familiar flavor is just so satisfying, that's how this movie felt. This is a smart, serious, subtle film which says so much even while it says so little. The movie doesn't spell things out for you, much is implied while little is out right spoken. When I finally made a mental connection regarding the twist, it was near thrilling.
Solid performances all around, with particular stand out work from Benedict Cumberbatch, Kirsten Dunst, and Kodi Smit-McPhee. Though I must says that Jesse Plemons spoken word to character development ratio is off the charts, he does so much with so little. After 'Licorice Pizza' I think this is my second favorite of the best picture nominees this year. ****
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