Impressively detailed, impeccably acted, and intricately layered, The Power of the Dog will have you roped in from start to finish! Yes, this is one heavy bit of viewing, but trust me, it is so worth it. The plot is ripe with themes of toxic masculinity, male ego, sexuality, and the “American Dream.” It’s a real anxious journey, and one that takes its time to wash over you. That anxiety expertly builds throughout, leading to more than a few unnerving revelations along the way. In short, there’s a lot to unpack once the credits role. I’d be remised if I didn’t give accolades to the top tier cast at hand. Every single one gives a rather unflinching performance. Kirsten Dunst makes a welcome return to large scale cinema, while Jesse Plemons offers up one heck of an affecting portrayal. The MVP is surely Benedict Cumberbatch, who is so deserving of any and all the golden statues he has coming his way. The actor is immensely cunning and convincing in his old-school masculinity, while also heartbreakingly tormented by his deep dark secret. It’s all very immersive stuff from everyone involved. And, like many of the other Westerns we’ve had this year (don’t stop now btw), the production design, costume work, and cinematography is to die for. Will it be for everyone? Not by a long shot. But, there is no denying the sheer beauty in this tragic exploration. It’s simply doggone good cinema!