Over the years, Westerns have proven to be an incredibly popular genre, with many of these flicks gaining a cult following. One of the better Western films of the last few years is available to stream on Netflix, but many people still haven’t seen it, despite it getting incredible reviews from both critics and audiences alike. Released back in 2021, the film was missed by many, but some fans have urged others to watch it.

With an incredible 94% score on the review site Rotten Tomatoes, The Power of the Dog is one of the best westerns of the 2020s so far. The flick, which was released back in 2021, is a Netflix original that stars Benedict Cumberbatch and Jesse Plemons, Kirsten Dunst and other familiar faces. The film is based on Thomas Savage’s 1967 novel, which is a celebrated classic novel set in 1920s Montana. Like the book, the 2021 adaptation tells the story of the charismatic rancher Phil Burbank, who instils amazement and fear in those around him.

When his brother brings home a new wife and her son, he teases and torments them until he opens himself up to the possibility of love in his life. Dramatic events follow, and there are many twists that take viewers by surprise.

The film has been highly praised and even received 12 Oscar nominations. The reviews for this film are overwhelmingly positive, with some calling it a “masterpiece”.

One Rotten Tomatoes review reads: “Much has already been said about Jane Campion’s western masterpiece, and for good reason. It is indeed truly great. Benedict Cumberbatch gives a career-best performance.”

Another said: “Jane Campion’s The Power of the Dog is a masterfully crafted, somber family drama. At its heart are amazing performances, particularly from Benedict Cumberbatch, whose portrayal of the abrasive Phil Burbank is both terrifying and deeply tragic.”

A third shared: “Slow burn, but still manages to keep your attention. Great acting (can’t go wrong with Benedict Cumberbatch) from all, especially Kodi Smit-McPhee. You think you know what everyone is thinking, but the twist actually surprised me. It’s hard to surprise me these days, and I actually laughed when I realised.”

“Seen this movie a few times now and yes it’s a slow build, but it left me curious and wanting to know more throughout the whole movie. Everything comes together in the second half and it’s incredibly surprising and satisfying. Cumberbatch is 10/10. Cinematography is gorgeous. This movie felt more like a mystery/drama than a classic Western.”

The Power of the Dog is ranked by Rotten Tomatoes as the best Western on Netflix. It is followed on the list by Broke (2025) and The Ballad of Buster Scruggs (2018).