First Cow (2019) Movie Review – A Tender Tale of Friendship and Frontier Survival
First Cow (2019), directed by Kelly Reichardt, is a quietly profound exploration of friendship, survival, and the American frontier. Adapted from Jonathan Raymond’s novel The Half-Life, this film is a contemplative and richly textured portrayal of two men forging a bond in the harsh environment of the Oregon Territory during the early 19th century. With its slow pace, nuanced performances, and evocative cinematography, First Cow is a meditative film that offers a fresh perspective on the Western genre, focusing not on the violence and grandeur typical of such films but on the small, intimate moments that define human connection.
Plot Overview
The film begins in present-day Oregon, where a woman discovers two skeletons buried side by side in the woods. This opening scene sets the tone for the film’s exploration of history, memory, and the lives of those often forgotten by time. The story then shifts back to the early 19th century, following the journey of Otis “Cookie” Figowitz (John Magaro), a skilled but reserved cook traveling with a group of fur trappers.
Cookie’s gentle nature contrasts sharply with the rough and often violent world around him. While foraging for food in the wilderness, Cookie encounters King-Lu (Orion Lee), a Chinese immigrant on the run from vengeful Russians. Despite the danger, Cookie helps King-Lu by offering him shelter, and a deep friendship quickly forms between the two men.
Their bond grows as they devise a plan to improve their lives. The key to their scheme is the first and only cow in the territory, owned by a wealthy Englishman known as the Chief Factor (Toby Jones). Cookie and King-Lu begin secretly milking the cow under the cover of night and using the milk to create “oily cakes” – a delicious pastry that quickly becomes popular among the local settlers. The success of their venture brings temporary prosperity, but it also draws the attention of the Chief Factor, setting the stage for the film’s quietly suspenseful conclusion.
Themes and Character Dynamics
First Cow delves deeply into themes of friendship, survival, and the harsh realities of frontier life. At its heart, the film is a story of two outsiders who find solace and companionship in each other’s company. Cookie and King-Lu, both marginalized by the world around them, form a bond based on mutual respect, trust, and a shared desire for a better life. Their friendship is depicted with a tender intimacy that is rare in films about the American West.
The film also explores the theme of survival, not just in the physical sense but also in terms of maintaining one’s humanity in a brutal and unforgiving environment. Cookie and King-Lu’s partnership is as much about emotional survival as it is about economic necessity. Their shared dream of escaping the hardships of frontier life is a poignant reflection of the universal desire for stability, comfort, and a sense of belonging.
The cow, as the titular character, symbolizes the possibility of a better life but also the precarious nature of that hope. The animal is both a source of sustenance and a dangerous temptation, representing the fine line between success and ruin in the frontier world. The cow’s presence also underscores the economic disparities of the time, highlighting the lengths to which people will go to carve out a place for themselves in a society that often seems indifferent to their struggles.
Cinematic Style and Direction
Kelly Reichardt is known for her minimalist and naturalistic approach to filmmaking, and First Cow is a prime example of her style. The film is deliberately paced, allowing the story to unfold slowly and organically. Reichardt’s direction emphasizes the small, quiet moments between characters, creating a sense of intimacy and immediacy that draws the viewer into the world of the film.
The cinematography by Christopher Blauvelt is another standout element of First Cow. Shot in a 4:3 aspect ratio, the film has a boxed-in, almost claustrophobic feel, which serves to heighten the sense of isolation and hardship faced by the characters. The use of natural lighting and the muted color palette further enhance the film’s authenticity, creating a visually striking portrayal of the Oregon wilderness.
Reichardt’s attention to detail is evident in every frame, from the meticulously recreated period costumes to the simple yet evocative set designs. The film’s sound design also deserves mention, with its emphasis on the natural sounds of the forest and the subtle, understated score by William Tyler, which complements the film’s tone perfectly.
Performances
The performances in First Cow are subtle and deeply felt, with John Magaro and Orion Lee delivering standout portrayals of Cookie and King-Lu. Magaro’s performance as Cookie is particularly poignant; his quiet, unassuming demeanor belies a deep well of kindness and resilience. Cookie is a character who says little but conveys a great deal through his actions and expressions, and Magaro’s portrayal captures this perfectly.
Orion Lee’s King-Lu is a more outwardly confident and ambitious figure, yet he shares Cookie’s sense of vulnerability and longing. Lee brings warmth and charisma to the role, making King-Lu a compelling and sympathetic character. The chemistry between Magaro and Lee is the heart of the film, and their understated yet powerful performances anchor the story in a deeply human reality.
Toby Jones, as the Chief Factor, provides a strong supporting performance, embodying the arrogance and obliviousness of the wealthy elite in the frontier setting. Jones’s portrayal adds a layer of tension to the film, as his character’s casual cruelty contrasts sharply with the friendship and solidarity between Cookie and King-Lu.
Critical Reception and Impact
First Cow was widely acclaimed by critics, praised for its thoughtful storytelling, rich character development, and beautiful cinematography. Many reviewers highlighted the film’s fresh take on the Western genre, noting its focus on the everyday lives of ordinary people rather than the larger-than-life heroes and outlaws typical of the genre.
The film was particularly noted for its exploration of friendship and survival, themes that resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike. First Cow was also lauded for its attention to historical detail and its evocative portrayal of the Oregon frontier, with some critics calling it one of the best films of 2019.
Where to Watch First Cow (2019) Online
For those interested in experiencing this quietly powerful film, First Cow is available on various streaming platforms, offering both rental and purchase options.
- Amazon Prime Video: The film is available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video, with rental prices typically around $3.99 and purchase options for about $12.99.
- Apple TV: First Cow can be rented or purchased through Apple TV, offering similar pricing to Amazon and providing a high-definition viewing experience.
- Google Play Movies & TV: The film is also available on Google Play Movies & TV, where it can be rented or purchased and watched on various devices.
- YouTube Movies: First Cow is accessible on YouTube Movies for rent or purchase, providing a convenient option for streaming.
- Hulu: First Cow is available to stream with a Hulu subscription, making it accessible to subscribers without additional rental or purchase fees.
Final Verdict
First Cow is a quietly profound and beautifully crafted film that offers a fresh and deeply human perspective on the American frontier. With its focus on friendship, survival, and the small moments that define our lives, the film is a poignant and memorable addition to the Western genre. Kelly Reichardt’s direction, combined with the strong performances of John Magaro and Orion Lee, makes First Cow a must-watch for anyone interested in thoughtful, character-driven cinema.
For those seeking a film that offers both emotional depth and visual beauty, First Cow is a standout choice. Its availability on multiple streaming platforms ensures that audiences can easily access this tender and evocative story of two men forging a bond in the unforgiving wilderness of early America.
