In the 1860s, fiercely independent Vivienne Le Coudy meets Danish immigrant Holger Olsen in San Francisco. They move to the quiet town of Elk Flats, Nevada, to build a life together. When the Civil War erupts, Holger joins the Union army, leaving Vivienne to manage alone in a town dominated by corrupt Mayor Rudolph Schiller and powerful rancher Alfred Jeffries. Vivienne faces unwanted advances from Alfred’s son, Weston, and must rely on her resilience to endure. Upon Holger’s return, they confront the changes in themselves and their relationship, striving to reclaim their shared dreams.

Length: 2h 9m
Genre: Western, Drama, Romance
This Title is: Gritty, Emotional

Stream  The Dead Don’t Hurt  on Paramount+

Cast

Vicky Krieps, Viggo Mortensen, Solly McLeod, Garret Dillahunt, Danny Huston

Parental Guidance

Maturity Rating: R – Violence, Sexual Content, Language

Trivia

  • Viggo Mortensen not only directed and starred in the film but also composed its score.
  • The film is a co-production between Canada, Denmark, and Mexico.
  • It premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 8, 2023.

Trailer

Our Review

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The Dead Don’t Hurt offers a fresh take on the Western genre, focusing on the strength and resilience of its central character, Vivienne Le Coudy, portrayed with depth by Vicky Krieps. The film’s cinematography captures the stark beauty of the frontier, enhancing the immersive experience. Viggo Mortensen’s direction brings a nuanced perspective, emphasizing character development and moral complexities. The supporting cast delivers strong performances, adding layers to the narrative. The film’s pacing allows for a thoughtful exploration of themes such as love, independence, and justice. Overall, The Dead Don’t Hurt stands out as a compelling addition to contemporary Western cinema.

Critic Scores

The Dead Don’t Hurt has been praised for its unique approach to the Western genre, with particular acclaim for Vicky Krieps’ performance and Viggo Mortensen’s direction. Critics have noted the film’s emotional depth and stunning visuals, making it a standout in recent Western releases.


IMDb Rating: 7.5/10