The Power of the Dog
DramaWestern
16+R
2021·2h 7m·Jane Campion·See-Saw Films·● Script read & verified
A psychological western drama about two rancher brothers whose relationship becomes strained when one marries a widow with a sensitive son. The film explores toxic...
Best watched together — Complex psychological themes and character motivations benefit from discussion
Heads Up for Parents
The film deals with repressed homosexuality and contains subtle but significant psychological abuse themes
What's In It
Violence
Very Mild▸
Language
Mild▸
Scary
Very Mild▸
Romance
Very Mild▸
Substances
Very Mild▸
Stimulation
Very Mild▸
Cultural & Values Guide
Values & Themes
●LGBTQ themes
Phil Burbank's repressed homosexuality and his relationship with Peter are central to the film's psychological drama. The exploration of closeted sexuality in 1920s Montana drives the entire narrative tension.
Community Notes
- Some religious communities may object to LGBTQ themes and non-traditional masculinity portrayals
Family Takeaways
What it gets right
- ✓Shows the destructive nature of toxic masculinity through Phil's behavior
- ✓Demonstrates the importance of kindness and acceptance in George's character
Cast:Benedict CumberbatchKodi Smit-McPheeKirsten DunstJesse PlemonsThomasin McKenzie