#SXSW: “THE COW”

By Amanda Gilmore

Kath (Winona Ryder) and her boyfriend Max (John Gallagher Jr) decide to take a trip to a remote cabin in the redwoods. However, when they arrive they find a younger couple, Al (Owen Teague) and Greta (Brianne Tju), already there. It turns out the rental has been double-booked. With nowhere else to go, they decide to share the cabin for one night. But when Kath wakes up the next morning she learns Max has run away with Greta. She then searches for an explanation for their sudden breakup.

Director and Co-Writer Eli Horowitz crafts an intriguing mystery with twists and turns. The more Kath searches for her explanation, the bigger the web becomes. Horowitz and fellow Screenwriter Matthew Derby find exciting ways to toy with their audience, leading them to second guess each theory they make until the shocking reveal.

It’s a reveal that most won’t see coming, however, some attentive viewers might. This is due to the introduction of Dermot Mulroney’s character, the cabin owner. Kath contacts him when trying to track down Greta. His role becomes bigger as the Film progresses, hinting that he has more at stake in her search than is led on. This mystery surrounding his character works due to Mulroney’s talent.

Leading the Cast is Ryder who turns in an impactful performance. She’s great in Kath’s confusion and frustration at Max leaving her for a younger woman. And she excels as a woman on a mission to find answers. Teague and Tju are great as the ominous couple. The latter steals the show in the Rhird Act.

The Cow screens at SXSW ’22 as follows:
In-Person:
Sunday, March 13 at 10:30 PM EST – ZACH Theatre

Tuesday, March 15 at 7:30 PM EST – Rollins Theatre at The Long Center

Wednesday, March 16 at 9:30 PM EST – Stateside Theatre

Online:
Monday, March 14 at 10:00 AM EST – Available for 48 hours