Nicolas Winding Refn, the Danish auteur known for his distinctive style, has crafted something uniquely captivating with Copenhagen Cowboy, his 2023 Netflix series. Sitting comfortably between his conventional crime thrillers (like the Pusher trilogy and Drive) and more experimental works (such as the lengthy Too Old to Die Young), Copenhagen Cowboy is a fascinating blend of the surreal and the criminal underworld.
Set in Copenhagen, the series follows Miu (played by Angela Bundalovic), an enigmatic figure with vague, psychic powers that bring luck to those around her, but swift misfortune to her adversaries. Over six captivating episodes, Miu navigates a bizarre landscape of:
- Albanian gangster-run brothels
- Chinese restaurants fronts for organized crime
- A possibly vampiric wealthy family
all while her character remains as mysterious as her origins.
About Copenhagen Cowboy's Unique Narrative Approach
What sets Copenhagen Cowboy apart is its operation on "dream logic," where characters speak in hushed, slow tones, and the camera lingers in agonizingly slow, 360-degree pans, inviting viewers to absorb every detail. The Cliff Martinez synth-heavy score complements this hypnotic atmosphere, merging with the series' sumptuous, neon-drenched neo-noir visuals to create a truly trance-like experience.
Miu, akin to Ryan Gosling's silent protagonist in Drive, is defined by her impact on the world rather than internal dialogue or development, embodying what Refn describes as a "female evolution" of his typical brooding heroes. Questions about her powers, humanity, or the inspiration behind her character (who strangely resembles Agnes Varda) are left unanswered, as Copenhagen Cowboy prioritizes atmosphere over plot or character introspection.
Refn's Unapologetic Style and Its Implications
Copenhagen Cowboy is Refn at his most unapologetic, distilling his style and pacing refined since Only God Forgives. This approach has carved him a niche as a cult auteur, unconcerned with contemporary expectations post-Drive. The series demands patience, a tolerance for ambiguity, and a willingness to surrender to its unique wavelength, making it almost "algorithm-proof" in today's streaming landscape.
For those willing to meet it halfway, Copenhagen Cowboy becomes mesmerizing, offering an experience only Refn can deliver. As the director ventures into new territory with Her Private Hell, touted as his first slasher and set to premiere at Cannes, the anticipation is palpable, especially given its promised blend of a Barbarella-like setting and a serial killer narrative.
What This Means for Viewers and the Streaming Landscape
Copenhagen Cowboy stands as one of Netflix's strangest and most overlooked originals, a testament to the platform's willingness to host unique content. For viewers seeking something beyond the conventional crime series, this supernatural saga is a hidden gem. However, its slow pace and emphasis on atmosphere over action may deter some, highlighting the divide between Refn's dedicated cult following and broader audience expectations.
Ultimately, Copenhagen Cowboy is a love letter to Refn's style, a culmination of his experimental instincts on the small screen. Whether it attracts a wider audience or remains a cult favorite, it's undeniable that Refn has once again pushed the boundaries of storytelling, proving that sometimes, the strangest offerings can be the most captivating.