Alex Cox's 'Dead Souls': A Western Inspired by Gogol

Filmmaker Alex Cox directed 'Dead Souls,' a western shot across Almeria, Spain, and Arizona. Cox, who also stars in the film, co-wrote the script with Gianni Garko. Cox has indicated this film may be his final work.

Narrative Inspiration and Adaptation

The narrative draws inspiration from Nikolai Gogol's novella 'Dead Souls.' The original story concerns a man purchasing the souls of deceased serfs to lower tax bills while claiming they are alive. The film adapts this premise, transplanting it to the American Old West of the late 19th century.

Nikolai Gogol's novella 'Dead Souls' concerns a man purchasing the souls of deceased serfs to lower tax bills while claiming they are alive.

Strindler's Quest in the Old West

In the film, Cox portrays Strindler, a character who travels the Old West. Presenting himself as a government official or itinerant preacher, Strindler seeks to acquire lists of deceased Mexicans from local notable figures.

His objective is to sell these names to government departments to assist in the exclusion of 'undesirable aliens' from American territory. The character also presents this action as a form of cleansing or redemption for the deceased individuals.

Themes and Narrative Arc

The narrative depicts Strindler as a figure operating within a corrupt environment, often outmaneuvered by others he encounters. A confrontation, including a gunfight, results in disorder. The film suggests that official accounts of these events prioritize legend over truth.

Aesthetic and Style

'Dead Souls' features an independent production aesthetic. It presents the action as a theatrical chamber piece and incorporates surreal elements. These include deceased characters singing and Strindler experiencing dreams of a future global conflict where his services are needed to acquire names of dead individuals from various nationalities.

'Dead Souls' features an an independent production aesthetic, presenting the action as a theatrical chamber piece.

The film is described as a tribute to spaghetti westerns and includes satirical political commentary.