Viggo Mortensen’s second directorial venture, The Dead Don’t Hurt, may seem like a traditional Hollywood western on the surface, but it offers a quietly unconventional spin on the genre. Shot in Durango, Mexico, the film features sweeping vistas and rugged landscapes that have become synonymous with classic western films. Mortensen, known for his diverse career choices, brings a unique perspective to the story of a rocky romance between a Danish immigrant, Holger Olsen, and a spirited woman named Vivienne, played by the remarkable Vicky Krieps.
Krieps shines in her role as Vivienne, bringing to life a character with a rebellious spirit and a love for beauty that sets her apart from the frontier folk in Olsen’s town. Their love story unfolds against the backdrop of the American West, with Mortensen’s arthouse sensibilities shaping the narrative in unexpected ways. The film explores themes of identity and belonging through the experiences of immigrants, challenging traditional notions of the all-American frontier adventure.
Cinematographer Marcel Zyskind captures the savage beauty of the landscape, while the sound design adds depth to the film’s immersive experience. However, it is Krieps’s magnetic presence on screen that truly brings the story to life. Her portrayal of Vivienne, a woman who defies societal expectations and faces the challenges of the frontier with courage and resilience, is the heart of the film.
As the story unfolds, Olsen grapples with grief and a desire for revenge following Vivienne’s death. The film’s structure, weaving together Olsen’s journey with Vivienne’s story, offers a unique perspective on loss and resilience. While some may find the pacing of the film slow at times, Krieps’s performance keeps the audience engaged and invested in the characters’ emotional journey.
Overall, The Dead Don’t Hurt is a thought-provoking exploration of love, loss, and the untamed spirit of the American West. With Vicky Krieps’s standout performance and Viggo Mortensen’s artistic vision, the film offers a fresh take on the western genre that is sure to resonate with audiences looking for a more nuanced and character-driven storytelling experience.