Central Cinema couldn’t coax Benedict Cumberbatch or Kirsten Dunst into making it back to Central Otago for the premiere of The Power of the Dog, but they managed to get a star in the end. 

Central Cinema’s Karin Bowen says it turned out people didn’t flock to give Frank the dog the pats he wanted but loved the movie. 

Frank is one of a number of local dogs to cameo in the film. There was rumour he was promised payments for his appearance at the cinema in the form of pats. 

“People were a little shy of touching or patting Frank,” Karin says. 

“The Power of the Dog has had a fantastic reception since its release date of 11 November.  We have had many fully booked sessions and have several more to come.  

“There’s still tickets available for December screenings.  

“Many locals as well as Frank the dog were extras in the film which gives the film a very local flavour.”

Frank the dog didn’t quite have the reception he hoped for at Central Cinema, but rumour has it he was promised payment in pats. 

The movie is set in Montana, but filmed in the Maniototo, and tells the story of two brothers who run the ranch there. 

“It’s billed as a Western/Drama and there’s a good measure of torment, jealousy and resentment throughout,” Karin says. 

“Benedict Cumberbatch and Kirsten Dunst are the lead actors with our local dog Frank as one of the three dogs in the story. 

“The film is typical of Jane Campion’s directing with several layers and themes, and twists and turns throughout.”

It won Jane a Silver Lion for Directing at the Venice Film Festival in September.  

“People should come and see it not only for the story but also for the stunning scenery - the Maniototo at its best on the big screen.  

“And perhaps they’ll even recognise a neighbour or a friend on screen.”