First Cow

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Michael G Technically, it was abysmally recorded, in darkness. Thematically, it was an interesting vignette of societal extremes played out through deceit. Rated 3/5 Stars •  Rated 3 out of 5 stars 03/16/20 Full Review Audience Member I couldn't wait for it to end. Rated 0.5/5 Stars •  Rated 0.5 out of 5 stars 01/14/23 Full Review Dave S Director Kelly Reichardt has proven over the course of her career that she understands the fact that there is beauty in simplicity. In First Cow, set in early 19th-century Oregon, two seemingly disparate men (John Magaro, Orion Lee) steal milk from the only cow in the area in order to sweeten the rolls they sell in the local market, thus increasing their profits. It’s a simple story dealing with simple themes, shot in what appears to be natural light with subdued performances, lovely cinematography, patient editing and deliberate pacing. In an era where the American film landscape is filled with frantic remakes, sequels, and prequels, having more filmmakers like Kelly Reichardt would be refreshing. Rated 4.5/5 Stars •  Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars 08/03/25 Full Review Zack D. Great script. Well acted. Nice period piece with a simple, but worthwhile plot. Rated 4/5 Stars •  Rated 4 out of 5 stars 07/21/25 Full Review Rolf T The gentle pacing of First Cow is reminiscent of a nature documentary, which of course it is - a study of human nature on the frontier of the Pacific northwest, before electricity, gas and TV. As the frontier creeps towards the Pacific ocean the trappings of civilization gradually appear from the east, including the first cow to arrive in the settlement. The central characters are searching for opportunity in a land without a safety net, and it is perhaps this sense of insecurity that makes a simple story so compelling. Crafted with Kelly Reichardt's distinctive ability to find profound meaning in quiet and understated moments, this film is a refreshing contrast to the overabundance of overstuffed movies that lack both authenticity and humanity. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 03/12/25 Full Review Georgan G This film is unique as a western. In 1820's north western USA, a friendship between a Chinese man & a cook is the focus. The plot moves slowly, but the beautiful cinematography & fascinating details holds your interest. Only criticism is some parts are too dark to see. Rated 4/5 Stars •  Rated 4 out of 5 stars 01/29/24 Full Review Read all reviews

First Cow

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