The Dead Don't Hurt

 

           A very deconstructed western starring Viggo Mortensen, who also directed, wrote the story, produced, and wrote the score (including playing some of the instruments).

           Rather than your typical western, this is a character study focused on the relationship between Mr. Mortensen's character "Olsen" and "Vivienne",  who is played by Vicky Krieps. It is almost devoid of violence, except for just four necessary scenes. Ms. Krieps really anchors the film, especially when Olsen joins the union army and is gone for a long stretch of time. She is wonderful as a strong willed, independent woman who navigates through a world of men both kind and conniving, and also one particularly nasty character.

           As written, the film time jumps frequently between various points in the past and the present. Mr. Mortensen leaves it up to the audience to follow the staggered time lines. The only obvious clue, the length of his beard. However, once engaged in the film, it becomes easy to follow. The relationship between Olson and Vivienne is really lovely and realistic. Both actors have great chemistry and it is easy to become absorbed in their story.

          The visuals are beautiful, The scenery is fresh and not what you see in many westerns. Mr. Mortensen choose to film primarily in British Columbia and Ontario with some scenes shot un Durango Mexico. The film is that much better for his location choices.

          While it is not your usual western plot, it is very rewarding in it's original way.