The Dead Don't Hurt

Director: Viggo Mortensen
Actors: Vicky Krieps, Viggo Mortensen, Solly McLeod
PlotIn a small, rugged frontier town in the American West during the mid-19th century, a fiercely independent Danish immigrant, Inge, seeks a new life away from the past she wishes to forget. Upon her arrival, she meets Holger, a reserved and enigmatic local cowboy with secrets of his own. Sparks fly between them despite their differing backgrounds, and they embark on an unconventional romance that defies societal norms and cultural expectations. The pair attempt to carve out a semblance of happiness amid external hardships—harsh lands, hostile weather, and looming tensions within the town. As they grow closer, their relationship faces scrutiny and suspicion from the tight-knit community, testing their resolve and devotion.
Just as Inge begins to feel at home, a new group arrives in town, bringing with them divisive ideas and a penchant for violence. The fragile peace is threatened, and deeply buried tensions rise to the surface, creating conflicts not only with outsiders but also among the townspeople themselves. Amidst the turmoil, Holger's mysterious past starts to unravel, challenging Inge's trust and forcing her to confront her fears. As allegiances crumble and danger mounts, Inge must navigate this volatile environment armed only with her wits and determination, hoping to protect what she holds dear and find a way toward her envisioned future. The struggle for justice and survival becomes personal as lines are drawn, revealing the true nature of love and the resilience needed to endure in an unforgiving world.
Writers: Viggo Mortensen
Release Date: 31 May 2024
Runtime: 129 min
Rating: R
Country: United States, Mexico, United Kingdom
Language: English, Spanish, French, Danish
Physical Media Reviews
The Dead Don't Hurt
Blu-ray Review
Score: 84
A meditative, character-driven Western by Viggo Mortensen, favoring intimate human connections over violence, delivering a deliberate slow-burn.