This review was made possible by catching an early screening thanks to the National Lottery, which organizes free national screenings designed to encourage everyone to rediscover the joys of independent film, with Escapes supported by the BFI and Signature Entertainment providing an advance screener.
In a cinematic landscape dominated by flashier, more ostentatious productions, “The Dead Don’t Hurt” is a refreshing reminder that sometimes the most powerful stories are those that unfold with quiet intensity and conviction. Viggo Mortensen’s passion project is a master of storytelling, weaving an intricate tapestry of breathtaking romance, revenge, and redemption. The film delves deep into the human psyche to uncover the complexities of love, resilience, and the unyielding pursuit of justice. Set against the harsh backdrop of the American frontier in the 1860s, this heartbreaking Western is a loving exploration of the electric chemistry of Vicky Krieps and Mortensen herself.
Vivienne Le Cudi (Vicky Krieps), an independent woman, falls in love with Danish immigrant Holger Olsen (Viggo Mortensen). After meeting Orson in San Francisco, she agrees to travel with him to his home near the quiet town of Elk Flats, Nevada, and begin a life together. As the Civil War broke out, the two were separated when Orson made the fateful decision to fight for the Union. This leaves Vivian to fend for herself in a place controlled by corrupt mayor Rudolph Schiller (Danny Huston) and his unscrupulous business partner, powerful rancher Alfred Jeffries (Garrett Dillahunt). Alfred’s violent and unruly son Weston (Solly McLeod) aggressively pursues Vivienne, determined to resist her own unwanted advances. When Orson returns from war, he and Vivian must face each other and reconcile. A tragic love story and sensitive portrayal of the conflict between revenge and forgiveness, The Dead Don’t Hurt is a portrait of a passionate woman determined to stand up for herself in an unforgiving world ruled by ruthless men.
The film’s narrative deliberately departs from traditional Western tropes, opting for a non-linear, flashback-driven approach that skillfully weaves past and present. Overall, this structural experiment paid off well as I was exposed to a rich tapestry of emotions and events that unfolded with quiet confidence.
In his feature debut, Falling (2020), Mortensen demonstrated his versatility as a performer by taking on the complex role of a gay man struggling to care for his sick and intolerant father. Now, with “The Dead Don’t Hurt,” Mortensen was inspired by his mother’s image, creating a narrative that drew on the medieval adventure stories of her childhood. The film “Dead Men Hurt” is a testament to his ability to reimagine the Western genre and breathe new life into its conventions while remaining true to its core.
But what truly sets “The Dead Don’t Hurt” apart is its thoughtful exploration of topics that are still highly relevant today. As Mortensen’s script explores the complexities of immigrant relationships, the ongoing struggle with gender-based violence, and the struggle for identity and subjectivity in a male-dominated world, he uses historical narrative to address pressing contemporary issues. It’s a timely and thought-provoking story with heavy themes of innate human evil, white privilege, and a woman’s unyielding perseverance in the face of adversity. Mortensen’s vision is fresh and resolute, and does not shy away from the harsh realities of life in this era.
Through the character of Vivian, Mortensen deftly explores the tension between assimilation and cultural heritage as she proudly embraces her French-Canadian roots while navigating life as an American settler. This heartbreaking description is highlighted in Vivienne’s nostalgic recollections of her mother’s stories of Joan of Arc, a symbol of female empowerment and nonconformity that resonates deeply with Vivienne’s quest for her self-discovery.
At the center of this epic film is Vicky Krieps, whose performance as Vivian is nothing short of marvelous. Her portrayal of a feisty and resilient woman determined to stand up for herself in a harsh world is simply stunning. Krieps portrays the story of Vivienne, a French-Canadian florist with a strong sense of independence who believes that “dead people are not harmed,” and depicts it with breathtaking nuance. Her character’s indomitable spirit shines brightly throughout the film as she navigates the treacherous terrain of a male-dominated society with unwavering determination. Mortensen’s performance as the Danish-born carpenter love interest Holger Olsen is equally impressive, bringing a quiet strength and vulnerability to his character. Their romance blossoms into a gentle, slow-burning dance that will have you rooting for them.
Cripps’ performance literally steals the spotlight. Her Vivienne is a beacon of hope and resilience that shines brightly even in the darkest of times. Her character’s love for Olsen is genuine and tender, making their romance all the more heartbreaking as they confront the cruel realities of their world.
With sweeping views and a 19th-century setting, The Dead Don’t Hurt has the look of a classic Western. This film is amazing in capturing the rugged beauty of the American frontier in the 1860s. The music, composed by Mortensen himself, is equally impressive, adding depth and emotion without overpowering the narrative. But it’s not just the visuals that make “The Dead Don’t Hurt” stand out. The attention to detail, the meticulous effort that goes into producing every aspect of the film. From the costumes to the production design, every element feels carefully thought out. The film was shot throughout the film primarily in Durango, a picturesque city in Mexico known as a center for western film production since the 1960s and 70s. Working with cinematographer Marcel Zyskind, production designers Jason Clarke and Carol Spier, and costume designer Anne Dixon, who had previously worked on Falling, Mortensen drew on his extensive knowledge of westerns to shape the drama’s visual aesthetic.
The film’s extensive shooting schedule exposed the crew to the breathtaking landscapes of Eastern Canada, whose rugged terrain and untamed wilderness provided an ideal setting for the story. The production team also ventured into Western Canada, where majestic mountains and wide-open valleys served as a dramatic canvas for the story to unfold.
final thoughts
Ultimately, “The Dead Don’t Hurt” is a testament to the power of love and human connection in the face of adversity, but it’s also a master class in emotional depth and nuanced storytelling. This is a bittersweet western that will leave you breathless and tearful. With a soaring score, exquisite cinematography, and outstanding performances from the leads, this film is a must-see for anyone who loves movies. It’s an instant classic Western worth seeing on the big screen.
Signature Entertainment presents “The Dead Don’t Hurt” exclusively in theaters starting Friday, June 7.
