‘Good Boy’: Inventive New Horror Movie Told From Dog’s POV

Prior to watching some movies, people who are easily affected might search ahead of time if a dog dies in the film, by typing something like, “Will the dog be okay?” or “Is the dog safe in this movie?

The question is so frequently asked that an entire website has been created around this very phrase, serving as a caution for viewers about potential triggers within entertainment media. More specifically, it alerts viewers if the cute pet in a movie survives until the end or not. However, let me rephrase it for you: “Is the dog a psychic who can see the deceased?

As a passionate film enthusiast, I’m eagerly awaiting the release of an innovative horror flick hitting cinemas this autumn. Unlike traditional haunted house narratives, this movie offers a fresh twist by telling its chilling story from the point of view of none other than the pet dog residing in that very haunted abode.

In a simple and engaging manner, Ben Leonberg’s first directorial effort, titled “Good Boy,” tells the story of a charming dog named Indy. After a heartbreaking family event, Indy and his owner Todd (portrayed by Shane Jensen) relocate to a rural home. Here, Indy begins to observe mysterious, otherworldly forces causing distress to Todd.

In the story, Indiana, portrayed by Leonberger’s actual dog, begins to grow increasingly uneasy due to an ominous force haunting their home. Despite not being able to verbally communicate or understand that his human friend is oblivious to the supernatural beings present, this devoted pet bravely steps up to protect and save his companion.

In an unusual twist for horror films, “Good Boy” seems to offer something fresh. Although many frightening movies have included notable pets and pet-related moments, I can’t recall another that has been narrated from the dog’s perspective, a choice that promises to add a chilling layer of fear, tension, and emotional depth.

In a statement about the challenging film-making process, Leonberg said:

As a movie reviewer, I found myself drawn into a unique cinematic experience where the leading actor was none other than a charming canine named Indy. For three years, my wife (also the film’s producer) and I juggled our schedules around his, using playful noises, posing him in precise positions, and luring him through our ‘haunted’ house with treats to capture his captivating performances on camera.

Indy’s scenes were shot in closed sets to ensure his undivided attention, and interestingly enough, I found myself stepping in front of the camera more than expected, as I’m one of only two people Indy truly loves and obeys. Embracing the challenges that came with this unconventional production, I firmly believe that the film’s success is a testament to the power of working within limitations rather than against them – a philosophy that resonates particularly well in horror films, which often flourish through ingenuity rather than extravagant budgets.

After its debut at SXSW in March 2025, Shudder and IFC have secured the rights for the film titled “Good Boy“. According to Shudder, it offers a unique horror experience centered around perspective. The movie, praised by critics during its SXSW screening, is slated for release in theaters perfect for Halloween season.

The movie, seen entirely through the perspective of Indy, a loyal dog who experiences both fear and determination to save his owner, offers a chilling and emotional journey that leaves an impact. This impact is due to Indy’s exceptional debut performance and Leonberg’s impressive first feature film, as noted by Emily Grotto, Shudder’s Senior Vice President of Acquisitions and Production, in her statement.

Good Boy will wag its way into theaters on October 3, 2025.

The Best Horror Movies of 2025 So Far

Companion

Following an unexpectedly violent twist at a secluded lake house gathering with friends, the protagonist Iris (Sophie Thatcher) realizes she is actually an AI companion robot controlled by an app on her boyfriend Josh’s (Jack Quaid) phone. This intriguing blend of sci-fi and horror offers a mix of thrills and dark humor, but truly shines when Thatcher and Quaid exhibit their most manic performances – Thatcher portraying a blood-stained Iris speaking frantic German to a puzzled police officer, and Quaid transforming into an increasingly ruthless Josh as he loses grip over his robotic girlfriend and adopts an incel mentality. Witty, fashionable, and at times absurdly amusing, “Companion” is a twisted, contemporary take on the Final Girl in the era of digital unease and gender dynamics that is both smart and timely.

Sinners

Ryan Coogler’s Debut into Horror – “Sinners”: A Daring, Genre-Bending Exploration

In a nutshell, “Sinners” is a film that defies conventions within its horror genre. The narrative follows two twin brothers, who decide to restart their lives in the 1930s Mississippi town, this time with a nightclub. However, the plot runs much deeper, unfolding as an intense journey encompassing themes of violence, liberation, vengeance, and redemption.

Set against the ominous backdrop of Deep South vampires and music imbued with supernatural energy, “Sinners” delves into a gory tale that is not only imaginative but also packed with action. The film boasts captivating performances from stars like Michael B. Jordan (in a dual role) and Hailee Steinfeld, who bring the story to life in more ways than one.

In essence, “Sinners” not only entertains but also stirs the soul.

Final Destination Bloodlines

The sixth installment of most horror franchises doesn’t typically excel, but the gruesome “Final Destination 5: Bloodlines” might be the series’ peak yet. This supernatural slasher (considering the unseen Death as an entity) transports fans back to the start, preceding the disastrous airplane crash in the first film. A young woman’s miraculous survival of a tragic tower accident in the ’60s triggers a chain of gruesome deaths for her descendants. The movie includes a poignant, heartfelt monologue from the late horror icon Tony Todd and an impressive, memorable performance by Brec Bassinger as the 1960s timeline’s less-than-final girl. Overall, “Bloodlines” is entertaining, unforeseeable, and creatively gory, breathing new life into the long-stagnant franchise for a fresh audience.

The Ugly Stepsister

As a film enthusiast, I’d put it like this:

Delving into the macabre world of Norwegian cinema, I stumbled upon a unique twist on a classic tale – Cinderella, given a chilling makeover. Instead of the traditional fairy godmother, we have the so-called ugly stepsisters, specifically Elvira, who takes center stage.

In a darkly twisted turn of events, driven by her mother’s selfish ambition and fueled by her own growing envy towards the now-servant stepsister, Elvira embarks on a harrowing journey of physical transformation. This metamorphosis is marked by a series of gruesome, excruciating cosmetic procedures, all in an attempt to win the heart of the kingdom’s superficial prince.

This film paints plastic surgery as a form of Medieval torture, weaving a grim and brutal tale that underscores society’s dangerous obsession with beauty standards. It’s a body horror fable that dares to challenge conventions and embraces the notion of a happily ever after through radical self-acceptance.

Presence

A family who relocates to a new house after experiencing a distressing incident seeks assistance from a medium when their youngest child senses an ominous spirit. In Steven Soderbergh’s film, Presence, the narrative is not entirely novel but the innovative approach of narrating it through the ghost’s perspective adds a unique flavor. With subtle acting and a few melancholic surprises, Presence delivers a chilling, steady-paced experience from beginning to end. Unlike its spectral entity, the film doesn’t wander aimlessly; instead, it keeps a well-structured format that allows viewers to piece together the puzzle bit by bit.

Grafted

In the film “Grafted”, a gifted but socially isolated Chinese science student named Wei, who’s an orphan and bears a facial birthmark, strives to complete her father’s research while studying at a university in New Zealand. Despite her intelligence, she struggles with self-doubt due to social exclusion by her popular cousin and peers, as well as the prejudice she encounters in New Zealand. When Wei makes a shocking scientific discovery with terrifying consequences, her mental state deteriorates. As her life grows increasingly perilous, she resorts to an extreme measure – wearing the faces of her tormentors – in a desperate attempt to belong and reclaim what she believes is rightfully hers. “Grafted”, Sasha Rainbow’s first directorial effort, is a darkly humorous, campy, and nightmarish body horror tale that seamlessly blends elements of “The Substance” and “Face/Off”.

Bring Her Back

As a fan, I’d put it this way: In the gripping movie “Bring Her Back,” from the creators of last year’s chilling “Talk to Me,” we follow Piper and Andy, two step-siblings who’ve just lost their parents. They’re placed temporarily with Laura, a foster mother whose strange actions make Andy uneasy. But things take a dark turn when we learn that Laura is still tormented by the drowning death of her daughter and will go to any lengths to bring her back. The film masterfully builds tension, showcasing intense, captivating performances by Billy Barratt as Andy – his portrayal of a traumatized big brother is both powerful and heart-wrenching. As we move through each unsettling scene, the story draws us closer to an ending no one could have predicted. It’s a gripping journey into terror and tragedy that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

2025-08-08 21:56