This evening, viewers have the chance to watch Benedict Cumberbatch starring in The Power of the Dog on BBC Two at 11pm, bringing a critically acclaimed film to terrestrial television. The movie, known for its compelling storytelling and strong performances, arrives shortly after its celebrated release and streaming success, offering audiences another opportunity to catch this modern classic.
Benedict Cumberbatch Headlines a Critically Acclaimed Western Drama
Although Benedict Cumberbatch is currently making headlines for his work in The Phoenician Scheme, tonight’s feature highlights one of his most well-received projects. The Power of the Dog, which first debuted on Netflix in 2021, has earned extensive praise from critics and audiences alike, attracting a variety of awards and nominations. With 12 Oscar nominations, the film stood out at the Academy Awards, ultimately bringing Jane Campion the Best Director trophy for her work behind the camera.
Frequently cited as one of the top films of 2021, The Power of the Dog now comes to BBC Two viewers, with its scheduled airing at 11pm on Friday, 30th May. For those unable to tune in at broadcast time, the movie will also be made available to stream through BBC iPlayer, offering flexibility for those who wish to add it to their weekend plans.
A Gripping Story Set in 1920s Montana
The Power of the Dog transports audiences to 1925 Montana, focusing on the dynamic between two brothers who are dramatically different. Cumberbatch delivers a performance as Phil Burbank, a character who is both commanding and complex, while Jesse Plemons takes on the role of his brother, George, whose more amiable personality introduces tension when he brings his new wife, Rose, played by Kirsten Dunst, and her son (portrayed by Kodi Smit-McPhee) into their lives.
Phil’s response to Rose and her son’s arrival is anything but welcoming, and his efforts to dominate his environment result in psychological manipulation that steadily escalates the unsettling tone of the film. The tension and power struggle within the family become central to the unfolding narrative, giving viewers an intense portrayal of human emotion and repression.
This film is an adaptation of Thomas Savage’s 1967 novel and was released in cinemas for a limited time before finding a larger audience on Netflix. Its atmospheric storytelling and haunting performances have continued to draw both viewers and discussion since its original release.
Recognition, Debate, and Controversy Surrounding the Film
The Power of the Dog has been met with widespread acclaim, consistently earning five-star reviews, but its entry into the world of Western cinema has also prompted debate. Some critics have questioned its approach to classic Western themes, sparking conversation about its place within the genre.
Sam Elliott, a veteran actor known for his work in Westerns, expressed his own strong viewpoint regarding the depiction of the American West in the film while appearing on Marc Maron’s WTF podcast. He remarked:
“That’s what all these f**king cowboys in that movie looked like.”
— Sam Elliott, Veteran Actor
These comments referenced his comparison of the film‘s cowboys to
“Chippendales dancers who wear bowties and not much else.”
— Sam Elliott, Veteran Actor
Benedict Cumberbatch addressed these criticisms in subsequent interviews, clarifying his stance and reflecting on reactions to the movie‘s portrayal of masculinity and identity:
“And beyond that reaction, that sort of denial that anybody could have anything other than a heteronormative existence because of what they do for a living or where they’re born.”
— Benedict Cumberbatch, Actor
He further emphasized the ongoing relevance of the issues addressed in the film, stating:
“These people still exist in our world. Whether it’s on our doorstep or whether it’s down the road or whether it’s someone we meet in a bar or pub or on the sports field, there is aggression and anger and frustration and an inability to control or know who you are in that moment that causes damage to that person and, as we know, damage to those around them.”
— Benedict Cumberbatch, Actor
Continuing, Cumberbatch noted the importance of examining complex characters and identities:
“There’s no harm in looking at a character to get to the root causes of that. This is a very specific case of repression, but also due to an intolerance for that true identity that Phil is that he can’t fully be.”
— Benedict Cumberbatch, Actor
Where and When to Watch The Power of the Dog
The Power of the Dog will air on BBC Two tonight at 11pm, offering a prime-time opportunity for those interested in seeing one of the most decorated films of recent years. For audiences who may miss the live broadcast, the film will also be accessible via BBC iPlayer, as well as on Netflix for subscribers.
This airing brings together a stellar cast, including Jesse Plemons, Kirsten Dunst, and Kodi Smit-McPhee, alongside Benedict Cumberbatch. Their performances, combined with Jane Campion’s direction and Thomas Savage’s original narrative, create a cinematic experience that continues to spark conversation about identity, repression, and the complexities of the American West.
With the film’s arrival on terrestrial television, more viewers can engage with its thought-provoking story and the cultural dialogues it continues to inspire, establishing its place in contemporary cinema and Western storytelling. The presence of actors such as Sam Elliott and discussions involving figures like Marc Maron highlight the lasting impact and debate that The Power of the Dog brings to the screen and beyond.
