The Dead Don’t Hurt is a visually stunning Western directed by Viggo Mortensen, who also stars in the film alongside Vicky Krieps. Set in the 1860s, this film tells the story of Vivienne Le Coudy (Krieps), a fiercely independent French Canadian woman, and Holger Olsen (Mortensen), a Danish immigrant. Their love story unfolds against the backdrop of the American frontier, offering a fresh take on the genre by focusing on character depth and emotional resonance.
From the outset, the film establishes a strong sense of place, with breathtaking cinematography that captures the rugged beauty of the Western landscape. The attention to detail in the set design and costumes immerses the audience in the era, making the world of The Dead Don’t Hurt feel both authentic and lived-in. Mortensen’s direction is deliberate, allowing the story to unfold at a measured pace that emphasizes the characters’ internal struggles and relationships.
Vicky Krieps delivers a standout performance as Vivienne, a woman determined to carve out a life for herself in a male-dominated world. Her portrayal is powerful, capturing Vivienne’s strength and vulnerability in equal measure. Mortensen, as Holger, provides a solid counterpoint, bringing a quiet intensity to his role as a man torn between his duty and his love for Vivienne.
The film’s narrative structure is unconventional, weaving together past and present to reveal the complexities of Vivienne and Holger’s relationship. While western’s aren’t one of my favourite genre’s, I could appreciate this story which was also penned by Mortensen. One of script’s strengths is its exploration of themes such as resilience, sacrifice, and the quest for justice. Vivienne’s journey is particularly compelling as she navigates the dangers of the frontier and the corrupt power structures of the town she inhabits.
The Dead Don’t Hurt excels in its technical aspects. The slower pacing of the film may not appeal to all viewers, but those who appreciate a character-driven story will find much to admire.
In cinemas nationally December 5.
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