The film manages to pull off despite noticeable flaws in its storyline. It centers on the resolute Vivienne, portrayed by Vicky Krieps, a woman navigating a harsh, male-dominated world of westward expansion during the 1860s. She crosses paths with Olsen, played by Viggo Mortensen, who is depicted as an upstanding and considerate man. They journey to his isolated, somewhat dilapidated dwelling where they begin building a life together. He accepts a position as sheriff, while she, much to his slight annoyance, finds work at the local saloon. However, he becomes unsettled; with the American Civil War on the horizon, he feels compelled to utilize his military experience from Denmark and join the conflict. She isn’t pleased with this decision, but he departs, leaving her vulnerable and directly in the path of Weston, portrayed by Solly McLeod, who comes across as surprisingly harmless. Upon Olsen's return from the war several years later, he is met with some unsettling revelations! What follows leads to an even more somber progression, forcing him to confront his past and resolve outstanding issues. This visually impressive romantic drama unfolds at a deliberate pace, which provides Krieps opportunities to deeply develop her character’s growth. The notion that he would simply abandon her for years, leaving her exposed, stretches credibility somewhat, and it does detract from the believability of what subsequently becomes quite predictable. Nevertheless, there's enough substance within the narrative, an economical use of spoken words, and a subtle spark between the lead actors suggesting the harsh realities and difficulties of maintaining integrity in such a rough environment.

Source on TMDB