"The Dead Don't Hurt" – A Unique Western Drama

"The Dead Don't Hurt" is a Western film directed by and starring Viggo Mortensen, known for its unique take on the genre. Instead of focusing on constant action and gunfights, it explores the deep relationships and personal struggles of its characters.

Plot Summary:

The story revolves around Holger Olsen (Viggo Mortensen), a Danish immigrant who becomes the sheriff of a small town in the American West. He meets Vivienne Le Coudy(Vicky Krieps), a French Canadian flower seller, in San Francisco and brings her back to his simple life in a tiny cabin. Together, they try to build a life and raise their son.

Meanwhile, the nearby town is controlled by a powerful businessman, **Alfred Jeffries** (Garret Dillahunt), his violent son **Weston** (Solly McLeod), and the corrupt mayor Rudolph Schiller (Danny Huston). Vivienne works in a saloon that the Jeffries family takes over, and Weston becomes dangerously interested in her.

Nonlinear Storytelling:

The movie doesn't follow a straightforward timeline. It jumps back and forth between different times in Holger and Vivienne's lives. This approach might be confusing at first but it adds depth to the characters' backgrounds and emotions.

Characters and Themes:

- Holger Olsen: He is not your typical Western hero. Holger is thoughtful, often seen reading or writing, and deeply cares for his family. His decisions reflect the complexity of real human psychology rather than stereotypical heroism. 

- Vivienne Le Coudy: The true heart of the movie, Vivienne is strong, independent, and resilient. Vicky Krieps portrays her with a blend of self-assurance and vulnerability, making her character incredibly relatable and authentic.

- Alfred Jeffries and Weston: Represent the corrupt and violent forces in the town, creating tension and danger for Holger and Vivienne.

Realistic Violence:

While there are moments of violence, they are portrayed realistically and sparingly. The film doesn’t indulge in long action scenes. Instead, it focuses on the impact of these moments on the characters' lives.

Emotional Depth:

The film excels in showing the emotional struggles of its characters. Holger's decision to join the Union army, leaving Vivienne alone, reflects the harsh realities of the time. Vivienne’s flashbacks to her childhood and dreams add layers to her character, showing how past traumas shape her present.

Cinematic Style:

Mortensen’s direction is deliberate and thoughtful. The film captures small, significant moments between characters, often through extended interactions that reveal their inner lives. The pacing may feel slow to some, but it allows for a richer, more immersive experience.

Final Thoughts:

"The Dead Don't Hurt" stands out by avoiding the typical high points of Westerns and instead focusing on meaningful character interactions. This approach makes the characters feel more real and relatable, respecting the different ways people understood themselves and each other in the past.

While it may not have the explosive action of traditional Westerns, its emotional depth and unique storytelling make it a compelling watch. If you're looking for a Western that offers something different, "The Dead Don't Hurt" is worth your time. Now playing on Netflix.