Mortensen’s introspective western starts with a demise. Contrary to an violent, action-packed conclusion, this story initiates with a poignant domestic scenario. The protagonist, Holger Olsen (played by Mortensen), a Danish immigrant who holds multiple roles in the movie including writer, director, and music composer – is seen caring for his wife, Vivienne LeCoudy (Vicky Krieps). The film’s editor, Peder Pedersen, effectively transitions from scenes of Vivienne’s childhood in the Quebecois frontier to her first interaction with Holger.
Holger, a past soldier and skilled carpenter, has his initial encounter with Vivienne, a free-at-heart florist, during a journey to San Francisco, or as described, “the ends of the Earth”. She instantly breaks her connection with her suitor (played by Colin Morgan) and transitions towards the sandy town of Elk Flats, Nevada. Here, Vivienne and Holger make a home until Holger’s guilt directs him towards the forefront of the American Civil War.
Despite arriving at their simplistic home, she remarks about his choice to choose such a dull location from his varied experience. While Holger serves on the frontlines, Vivienne finds herself becoming the target of the village thug, Weston (played by Solly McLeod), a murderer and rapist, supported by his landholding father (Garret Dillahunt) and the corrupt mayor of the town (Danny Huston).
Krieps gives an outstanding performance as Vivienne; her most striking role since Phantom Thread, where the slightest gesture could convey profound emotions. His words, “I will miss you,” are met with her dry response, “I hope so.” The script, written by Mortensen, incorporates a harmony of feminist theories and classic face-offs between the male characters, portraying Vivienne as a Joan of Arc-like figure, yet exposed to the degradation of the time period. This tension brings an interesting dynamic to the symbolic vengeance that unfolds.
In addition to drawing inspiration from western elements in The Road and Jauja, Mortensen has recruited a group of skilled supporting actors to bring vividness to roles like the preacher, the fish seller, and the bartender. Scenes like the compact, tense courthouse setting introduces the villainous characters, the crowd, and the judge (Roy McKinnon). The public-house scene is similarly imbued with political undertones.
Marcel Zyskind’s brilliant cinematography provides a stark contrast to the sombre narrative.
“Ride or Die: Bad Boys – Will Smith, who’s featuring in a major role following the Oscars controversy, retains his charm. Martin Lawrence is seen winded and panting. The movie, ‘The Dead Don’t Hurt’, will be playing in theatres starting Friday, the 7th of June.”