Welcome to this movie review of Good Boy, a sinister concoction blended expertly by director Viljar Bøe. Set in the nerve-wracking genres of Horror and Thriller, this film wraps its eerie tendrils around you from the very start. The 2023 release showcases a uniquely unsettling premise — a characteristic plot twist that might just shake up your next movie night!
The film follows Christian, a millionaire heir, and his unique living situation with Frank, a man who acts like a dog. Yes, you heard that right! This oddball premise is what makes Good Boy fascinatingly creepy. When Sigrid, an unsuspecting student played by Katrine Lovise Øpstad Fredriksen, swipes right on Christian, she unwittingly steps into a world layered with disturbing secrets. Imagine a dating app horror-thriller mashup — it's a brave theme that guarantees a rollercoaster of emotions and some serious goosebumps.
In terms of performances, Gard Løkke as Christian delivers a portrayal rich in charisma but laced with subtle menace. The chemistry between Gard and Katrine feels authentic, even within the film's bizarre framework. And while the acting pulled me in, Viljar Bøe's direction and screenplay deserve a shout-out for maintaining suspense throughout. At times, the atmosphere is crafted so intensely that I caught myself peeking through my fingers! However, you might feel the screenplay drops the ball, occasionally dragging in parts where the dialogue feels more awkward than engaging.
Those familiar with films like 'The Lighthouse' or 'Dogtooth' will notice similarities — both in terms of unsettling human behavior and confined settings. Good Boy may not carve its niche as sharply as these titles into the horror hall of fame, but its distinctive storyline earns it a curious spot among must-watch films for fans of the best horror movies. The film sometimes stumbles with pacing issues and character depth, yet it provides that chilling ambiance horror enthusiasts live for.
Would I say Good Boy is a cinematic masterpiece? Probably not. But does it succeed as a freaky horror-thriller that keeps you guessing? Absolutely! If you're intrigued by peculiar narratives and don't mind your skin crawling a bit, make sure to add this to your watchlist. In a world filled with jump scares and cliché tropes, this film is a breath of fresh, albeit slightly mad, air. Grab your popcorn, dim the lights — this is one heck of an experience! So, give it a go because movie breakdowns of movies like Good Boy are few and far between.