Out this week on Netflix, actor Benedict Cumberbatch, Jane Campion's Western drama has one of the most impressive ensembles in a film this year. With a cast this strong, it's no surprise that there is so much buzz around this film.
The Power of the Dog tells the story of Phil Burbank, a respected but feared rancher who works alongside his younger brother George. One day, George announces to Phil that he has married Rose Gordon, a woman who works in a local restaurant. Along with Rose is her son, Peter, a flamboyant young man who Phil sees as weak. Phil begins to taunt Rose and Peter, showing his dismay towards them any chance he can get—that is, until Phil starts to grow an attachment to Peter, and the two strike up an unlikely bond.
Netflix seems to be single-handedly redefining the modern Western genre, between The Power of the Dog and The Harder They Fall, both revitalizing the genre and containing all-star ensembles of remarkable actors and characters. However, where The Harder They Fall takes a more bombastic approach to the genre, The Power of the Dog tells a more somber, quiet tale. Here's a guide to the cast and characters of The Power of the Dog and what you may know them from.
Benedict Cumberbatch as Phil
Benedict Cumberbatch's Phil is by far and away the most complex character in The Power of the Dog. He's charismatic, yet scary; strong, yet fragile. Phil projects this image of a "man's man" type of character—a cowboy as raw as his hides. But inside, he's broken and wants to have a special connection with someone like he had with his mentor, Bronco Henry, but is afraid to be his true self in a place in time that won't allow it. Cumberbatch has had many memorable roles such as Sherlock. But he is probably most-known for his portrayal of Doctor Strange in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Kodi Smit-Mhee as Peter
Kodi Smit-Mhee plays Peter, a flamboyant young man who wishes to one day be a surgeon; to the point of even killing and dissecting animals for practice. Peter is very protective of his mother Rose, and is not afraid of being his true self. He is essentially Phil's polar opposite. However, as fragile as Peter may first appear, it's clear that he is particularly strong-willed and confident in himself and his abilities, and will not let anything get in the way of his goals. Kodi Smit-Mhee is most known for his role as a X-Men Apocalypse, as well as 2010's Let Me In.
Kirsten Dunst as Rose
Kirsten Dunst's Rose is the mother to Peter, and newly-wed wife of George, Phil's brother. Rose is a loving mother and wife, but also has serious issues with dependency, both with other other people and with alcohol. Rose has a hard time making it on her own and uses alcohol as a coping mechanism. Rose, like Phil, is a particularly complex character, as her intentions are largely unclear, making her a suspicious yet vulnerable and fragile presence in the story. Kirsten Dunst has had a number of great roles, but is perhaps most famous for her role as Mary Jane Watson in Sam Raimi's Spider-Man trilogy.
Jesse Plemons as George
Jesse Plemons' George is the younger brother to Phil. George, unlike Phil, is a more laid back and assured character. He loves his brother but is usually concerned for Phil's well-being, often not being able to connect with him on the level he may wish to. George is more of the observer to the main conflict of The Power of the Dog rather than having an involved part in the events of the film. Jesse Plemons has had many notable roles such as those in 2018's Game Night and 2020's i'm thinking of ending things, but his most notable role is probably that of Breaking Bad, which served as his breakout performance.
