Featured Image: (Pacer Graphic / Darby Self)

Released on Oct. 3, 2025, Good Boy, directed by Ben Leonberg, has shocked audiences because of the creativity of the film. Good Boy is a supernatural thriller that shows the film through a different lens, a dog’s. The general idea of the film is that it’s a ghost story told from the perspective of a dog.

Leonberg worked on this film for over 400 days across three years with his wife, Kari Fischer, as the producer. For the production of the film, the crew was small and required extra patience since Indy was not a trained dog actor. Actors for the film only came in during the final stages of production or provided voiceovers in post-production.

The film positions Indy, Ben Leonberg’s own Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, as the central protagonist carrying the story. Indy and his owner, Todd (Shane Jensen), who is struggling with his health, move into Todd’s grandfather’s home, which has been abandoned for some time. When they move into the house, Indy can sense that something is wrong inside; however, the audience knows that there is supposedly something wrong with the home from a phone call between Todd. The tension in the movie rises as Indy tries to save Todd as his conditions worsen and the forces work to take him over.

Leonberg’s decision to tell a ghost story through a dog’s eyes was risky, but it gave the film an original idea rarely seen in the horror genre.

Many viewers have had mixed reviews of the film.

Letterboxd user Zino (zinoo2) rated the film half a star and said, “While Indy was the goodest boy, the execution of this film was lacking majorly. [The film had a] Lot of plot holes, inconsistencies and unused/unneeded plot points. [The] best actor was by far Indy, and he should get an Oscar for this performance.”

On the other hand, Letterbox user vik120 (vik120) had a simple comment to say, “Good boy, ok movie.”

In summary, Good Boy is a memorable horror film, pushing the boundaries and standards of the genre. Leonberg’s unconventional idea and execution for the film raise unsettling questions about the loyalty and unconditional love that come with companionship. While it may not appeal to all audiences, Good Boy deserves credit for its originality and creativity.

Grade: 5/10