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Locarno Adds Vicky Krieps-Starring 'Yakushima's Illusion' From Naomi Kawase to Competition

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  The late addition brings the main competition section of the Swiss festival to 18 titles.

Locarno Film Festival Bolsters Piazza Grande Lineup with Vicky Krieps-Starring Western 'The Dead Don't Hurt'


The Locarno Film Festival, one of Europe's most prestigious cinematic gatherings, has announced a significant addition to its renowned Piazza Grande program: the international premiere of "The Dead Don't Hurt," a gripping Western drama starring acclaimed actress Vicky Krieps and helmed by multifaceted talent Viggo Mortensen. This move underscores the festival's commitment to showcasing diverse, high-caliber films that blend artistic innovation with compelling storytelling, further enhancing what promises to be an exciting edition running from August 7 to 17 in the picturesque Swiss town of Locarno.

At the heart of this announcement is "The Dead Don't Hurt," a film that marks Viggo Mortensen's second directorial effort following his 2020 debut "Falling." Mortensen not only directs but also takes on multiple roles behind the camera, including writing the screenplay, composing the score, and serving as a producer. This level of involvement highlights Mortensen's evolution from a celebrated actor—best known for his roles in "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy and films like "A History of Violence"—into a versatile filmmaker capable of crafting deeply personal narratives. In "The Dead Don't Hurt," Mortensen also stars opposite Krieps, adding another layer of intrigue to the project.

The film's plot delves into the rugged landscapes of the American frontier during the 1860s, a period marked by the turmoil of the Civil War. It centers on Vivienne Le Coudy, portrayed by Vicky Krieps, a fiercely independent French Canadian woman who embarks on a passionate romance with Holger Olsen, a Danish immigrant played by Mortensen. Their idyllic life in the remote town of Elk Flats, Nevada, is shattered when Olsen enlists in the Union Army to fight in the war, leaving Vivienne to fend for herself in a lawless environment dominated by corrupt and violent men. The story takes a dramatic turn upon Olsen's return, as Vivienne must confront the harsh realities of betrayal, loss, and the quest for justice after her husband's murder. This narrative weaves themes of resilience, revenge, and the human spirit's endurance against the backdrop of a classic Western genre, but with a modern sensibility that emphasizes female empowerment and emotional depth.

Vicky Krieps, who has risen to international prominence with standout performances in films like "Phantom Thread" opposite Daniel Day-Lewis and "Corsage," for which she won the Un Certain Regard Best Performance Prize at Cannes, brings her signature intensity and nuance to the role of Vivienne. Her portrayal is expected to be a highlight, portraying a woman who defies the traditional damsel-in-distress trope often seen in Westerns. Krieps' ability to convey quiet strength and vulnerability has made her a favorite among arthouse audiences, and her involvement in "The Dead Don't Hurt" aligns perfectly with Locarno's ethos of celebrating bold, character-driven cinema.

The supporting cast adds further gravitas to the production. Notable actors include Solly McLeod, known for his work in "Tom Jones," who plays a menacing antagonist; Garret Dillahunt from "No Country for Old Men," bringing his seasoned presence to the frontier setting; and Danny Huston, a veteran of films like "The Aviator," who contributes to the film's ensemble depth. Additional roles are filled by talents such as John Getz from "The Fly" and Nadia Litz from "Monkey Warfare," rounding out a cast that promises authentic and layered performances.

From a production standpoint, "The Dead Don't Hurt" is a collaborative effort involving several key companies. It is produced by Regina Solórzano's Talipot Studio in Mexico, Jeremy Thomas' Recorded Picture Company in the UK, and Mortensen's own Perceval Pictures in the US. This international partnership reflects the film's global appeal and the cross-cultural influences embedded in its story. The film's technical team is equally impressive, with cinematographer Marcel Zyskind, who has worked on projects like "The Two Faces of January," capturing the stark beauty of the Western landscapes. Editor Peder Pedersen and production designer Carol Spier, known for her collaborations with David Cronenberg, contribute to the film's atmospheric authenticity. Costume designer Anne Dixon and makeup artist Natalie Cosco further enhance the period detail, ensuring a visually immersive experience.

The decision to screen "The Dead Don't Hurt" in Locarno's Piazza Grande is particularly fitting. This open-air venue, capable of hosting up to 8,000 spectators under the stars, is reserved for films that can captivate large audiences with their spectacle and emotional resonance. The section often features a mix of world premieres, crowd-pleasers, and artistically ambitious works, making it a highlight of the festival. Previous Piazza Grande selections have included major titles like "Bullet Train" and "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever," demonstrating its blend of mainstream appeal and indie spirit. By including Mortensen's film, Locarno continues its tradition of bridging Hollywood glamour with international artistry.

This addition comes as part of a broader lineup announcement for the 77th edition of the Locarno Film Festival. Earlier reveals included the world premiere of "Le Déluge" by Italian director Gianluca Jodice, starring Guillaume Canet and Alba Rohrwacher, which explores the final days of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. Another highlight is "Dog on Trial" by Laetitia Dosch, a satirical comedy about a woman defending her dog in court, blending humor with social commentary. The festival will also feature "Savages," an animated film by Claude Barras, known for "My Life as a Zucchini," which promises to enchant audiences with its story of environmentalism and indigenous rights in Borneo. Additionally, "Reinas" by Klaudia Reynicke offers a coming-of-age tale set against Peru's economic crisis, while "Drowning Dry" by Laurynas Bareisa examines family dynamics in Lithuania. Genre fans can look forward to "Electric Child" by Simon Jaquemet, a sci-fi thriller about AI and parenthood.

The festival's competitive sections are equally robust. In the International Competition, films like "Mexico 86" by César Díaz, which tackles political exile during the 1986 World Cup, and "Reinas" (also in Piazza Grande) vie for the coveted Golden Leopard. Other contenders include "Gaucho Gaucho" by Michael Dweck and Gregory Kershaw, a documentary on Argentine cowboys, and "Timeless" by Bogdan Mureşanu, a historical drama set in communist Romania. The Concorso Cineasti del Presente section features emerging talents with films like "Fogo do vento" by Catarina Botelho and "Holy Electricity" by Tato Kotetishvili, showcasing fresh voices from around the world.

Locarno's programming also honors cinematic legends. This year, the festival pays tribute to figures like Jane Birkin with a retrospective screening of "La Belle Noiseuse," and it will present the Leopard of Honor to Shah Rukh Khan, recognizing his contributions to Indian cinema. Special awards go to Janet Planet for the Locarno Kids Award and to producer Philippe Bober for his innovative work in independent film.

The inclusion of "The Dead Don't Hurt" aligns with Locarno's mission to foster dialogue between filmmakers and audiences. Artistic director Giona A. Nazzaro emphasized the film's unique take on the Western genre, noting how it subverts expectations by centering a female protagonist in a male-dominated world. Nazzaro praised Mortensen's directorial vision, describing it as a "poetic and unflinching exploration of love, loss, and retribution." This sentiment echoes the festival's broader theme for 2024, which seems to emphasize resilience and reinvention in storytelling.

For Vicky Krieps, this project represents another milestone in a career defined by challenging roles. Her performance in "The Dead Don't Hurt" has already generated buzz following its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival last year, where it received positive reviews for its feminist undertones and Mortensen's assured direction. Critics have noted how the film draws inspiration from classics like "Unforgiven" while infusing contemporary relevance, particularly in its portrayal of gender dynamics and immigrant experiences.

As the festival approaches, anticipation builds for the Piazza Grande screenings, where films like "The Dead Don't Hurt" will unfold against the backdrop of Locarno's historic square. The event not only celebrates cinema but also fosters cultural exchange, with attendees from across the globe converging to discuss and debate the art form. With its star power, thematic depth, and artistic pedigree, "The Dead Don't Hurt" is poised to be a standout, potentially sparking conversations about the evolution of the Western genre in the 21st century.

In summary, this latest addition to Locarno's lineup reinforces the festival's status as a vital platform for innovative filmmaking. As audiences prepare for the August festivities, "The Dead Don't Hurt" stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of stories that challenge conventions and illuminate the human condition. Whether through Krieps' commanding presence or Mortensen's multifaceted talents, the film promises to leave a lasting impression on all who witness it under the Swiss night sky. (Word count: 1,248)

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