Is The Power Of Dog Based On A True Story? The Cowboy’s Tale Towards Justice Is More Complex Than You Think!

For a film revolving around cowboys and ranches, the title is a bit absurd, isn’t it? Well, it holds a deeper meaning. The Power Of Dog symbolises that no human can always have the upper hand, there always arrives a day when the underdog steals the show. Netflix’s power-packed drama, The Power Of Dog, has garnered millions of fans worldwide and it is all because of its punchy storyline, commendable screenplay and of course, the superbly talented actors.

The narration of Netflix’s The Power Of Dog is the primary reason it has become such a critically appraised film that made a fan of almost everyone who watched it. The sensitive matter it deals with, the representation of those matters and the lessons it subtly teaches you to make The Power Of Dog an engrossing watch. Also, these reasons open the curtains to the question of The Power Of Dog being based on a true story.

Is The Power Of Dog Based On A True Story?

Manifested by the Academy Award-winning director, Jane Campion, The Power Of Dog follows the lives of two brothers, Phil and George Burbank along with a widower, Rose and her son, Peter. Rose (Kirsten Dunst) moves into the ranch of the Burbanks and marries the soft-spoken, kind-hearted George (Jesse Plemons). She doesn’t realize what kind of mess she has invited to her doorstep. Phil (Benedict Cumberbatch) is a closeted gay who starts exerting unnecessary pain on others especially Rose and her son, Peter (Kodi Smit-McPhee). The Power Of Dog chronicles delicate matters such as homophobia, homosexuality, religious freedom and more, resulting in a hard-hitting blend.

Netflix’s The Power Of Dog has been nominated for 12 Oscar awards out of which it won one for best direction. It managed to amass millions of fans and remains one of the best works by Campion. However, it is not entirely based on a true story. Rather, it is inspired by Thomas Savage’s eponymous novel.

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The Power Of Dog Derives Inspiration From Thomas Savage’s Novel

Is The Power Of Dog Based On A True Story?

Savage is known for his literary works that shed light on self-acceptance, self-loathing, homophobia and many more psychological matters. The Power Of Dog is another masterpiece by Savage. It is a semi-autobiographical novel that witnesses Savage’s real-life character as Peter. His personality traits and life story are imbued into the pivotal characters of Netflix’s The Power Of Dog. While Peter sticks closely to Savage’s personality, Phil also shares some of his traits.

Thomas grew up on a ranch in Montana and had to endure an abusive uncle. His mother who remarried after her husband’s death fell into a web of alcohol and addiction. Due to her addiction and the narrow-minded society of the 1960s, Savage had to hide from the world. However, Peter’s life is obliterated due to his burning need for revenge on Phil who drove her mother to alcohol and bullied her.

Does Peter Get Justice At The End Of The Power Of Dog?

The anticlimactic ending of The Power Of Dog is probably the most fulfilling scene of this almost 2-hour-long film. Peter is an underdog, creeping his way into Phil’s life like a lazy tortoise ever so slowly. Peter gets on the good graces of Phil, distracting him from his now alcoholic mother. He convinces Phil to teach him the ropes of the ranch and since Peter has become an accomplice in Phil’s carefully-hidden secret and homophobia, Phil has lowered his guards.

Peter asks Phil to teach him the making of a leather rope and offers him a cowhide that he secretly took from a dead cow. Since Phil’s palm was slashed open and was yet to be healed properly, he catches an infection instantly and dies painfully. Peter, who is a medical student, cleverly uses his knowledge to kill the dog that tortured many, earning justice for himself and his family.

Is The Power Of Dog Based On A True Story: FAQs

1. What Is The Power Of Dog Film About?

It is a tale of justice, revenge, homophobia, bullying and tragedy centred around two characters, Peter and Phil.

2. Is The Power Of Dog Based On A True Story?

No, it is not exactly based on a true story rather derives inspiration from a real story.

3. What Is The Power Of Dog Based On?

It is based on Thomas Savage’s titular novel.

4. Is The Power Of Dog Worth Watching?

If you are into films with deeper meanings and a tinge of revenge, The Power Of Dog is for you.

5. Is A Trailer Available For The Power Of Dog?

Yes, there is a trailer available for the film.

6. Where To Watch The Power Of Dog?

You can stream The Power Of Dog on Netflix!

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