The Dead Don’t Hurt

“The Dead Don’t Hurt” is a 2023 Western film directed by Viggo Mortensen, who also stars alongside Vicky Krieps. Set in the 1860s, the narrative centers on Vivienne Le Coudy (Krieps), a French Canadian woman who relocates with Danish immigrant Holger Olsen (Mortensen) to a remote Nevada homestead. Their life together is disrupted when Olsen departs to fight in the Civil War, leaving Vivienne to navigate the challenges of frontier life and confront local corruption in the town of Elk Flats. The film explores themes of love, resilience, and the struggles faced by women in a male-dominated society.

The Dead Don't Hurt review – Vicky Krieps is a woman of substance in Viggo Mortensen's offbeat western | Westerns | The Guardian

Critics have noted the film’s deliberate pacing and strong performances, particularly highlighting Krieps’ portrayal of Vivienne. The Financial Times describes her as “the heart of the film,” commending her ability to conjure her character “whole from a thousand tiny moments.” The film’s cinematography captures the stark beauty of the Nevada landscape, enhancing its atmospheric storytelling.

The Dead Don't Hurt' Review: Viggo Mortensen Lets Vicky Krieps Lead

However, some reviews have critiqued the film for its character development and pacing. The Movie Gourmet expressed disappointment, stating that the behavior of the main characters is “not always plausible or understandable,” and describing the supporting characters as “one-dimensional.”

Chicago Critics Film Festival 2024 Review: The Dead Don't Hurt — A Reel Of One's Own

Overall, “The Dead Don’t Hurt” offers a contemplative take on the Western genre, focusing on a woman’s experience and independence during a tumultuous period in American history.

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