Good Boy | 2025 SXSW Film Review

Good Boy is a refreshing take on the horror genre, blending supernatural elements from a “good boy’s” perspective. From the outset, all I knew was that this film involved a dog and horror—two elements that immediately sold me. What I didn’t expect was the experience that would follow, shot entirely from the dog’s lens.

The film centers on Indy, the family dog of Todd, a man who moves from the city into an old family home. The backstory unfolds through phone conversations between Todd and his sister, as well as old videotapes Indy watches with him, revealing the presence of a sinister force in the woods. You know how our pets seem to snarl at “nothing” in the corner of the dark room? Good Boy is just that, per director Ben Leonberg. Todd doesn’t seem to comprehend, but Indy reacts to what Todd is overlooking.

Ben Leonberg’s bold decision to shoot the film primarily from the dog’s perspective gives it a unique, disorienting quality. Lambert spent approximately 300 days capturing footage, ensuring that every shot genuinely reflects how a dog might perceive the world. The intention behind this approach is clear: dogs are always aware of things we can’t see—noises, shadows, movements—and the film immerses us into the world as they do.

Unfortunately, while the film excels visually and conceptually, the story doesn’t reach its full potential. The narrative, while interesting, doesn’t fully capitalize on its premise. The tension builds, but the climax falls short, and the resolution falls a bit flat. That said, the performances, especially from the dog (who is impeccably trained), are incredibly impressive, with Indy seemingly capable of taking directional cues.

Indy’s actions are so natural and well-delivered that he is in fact, the goodest boy. He was truly acting, responding to commands with the precision of a well-trained performer. In fact, the relationship between Indy and Todd feels incredibly authentic, adding a layer of emotional depth to the film, and making Good Boy a must-see for animal lovers and film enthusiasts alike.

Good Boy’s direction, cinematography, and unique perspective alone are worth the watch. If anything, it showcases the untapped potential of storytelling from an animal’s viewpoint, and it would be fascinating to see this concept revisited with a stronger script or in a different genre—perhaps a slasher sequel: Good Boy 2, anyone?

Good Boy is an inventive film that offers a fresh, visually captivating experience. It may not have the strongest story, but it’s a memorable and compelling movie, particularly for those who appreciate unique cinematographic choices and all the protective good boys and girls.

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