Good Boy (2025) directed by Ben Leonberg is a horror-thriller that might just take a bite out of your comfort zone. This movie review dives into a chilling canine conundrum — a nightmare that keeps on giving. Is it one of the best horror movies in recent years? Let's find out.
The plot of Good Boy raises an eyebrow — if not two. It weaves together intrigue and spine-chilling elements as Larry Fessenden leads us through a tale of terror. Fessenden, alongside the brilliant Arielle Friedman, faces an unfathomable threat tied to the mystery of a seemingly ordinary pet. The mysterious dog, Indy, who deserves an award for his performance (Seriously, who trained this dog?), becomes the center of a series of creepy, head-scratching occurrences. The themes delve deep into the pet-owner relationships — flipping the script on our canine friends with a sinister twist.
Now, let's talk about performances. Larry Fessenden nails the part with a brooding, intense portrayal that matches the script’s eerie tone. Arielle Friedman is a revelation, adding layers of depth to what could have been a straightforward scream queen role. Oh, and let's not forget about the scene-stealer — Indy, the dog, whose acting chops propel the film beyond your average thriller. However, the screenplay by Alex Cannon and Ben Leonberg might strike some as uneven — every chill accompanied by occasional spills of cringe-worthy dialogue. Thank goodness the cinematography envelops it all in a shroud of stylistic gloom, rendering even mundane scenes unsettling.
When comparing Good Boy to other films in the same vein — think Cujo meets It Follows — it holds its ground with a fresh twist on the proverbial man’s best friend. It’s thrilling without relying too much on worn-out tropes. However, unlike the classic jaws of Jaws or the nameless dread of Paranormal Activity, it sometimes paves its own horror path at the expense of pacing.
In conclusion, if you're a fan of horror — or even if you'd just like a conversation starter at your next dinner party — Good Boy might just be what the vet ordered. With a mix of creepiness and the occasional chuckle, there's plenty here to feast upon. Curious to see how a pet turns into menace? Grab a bowl of popcorn and a friend to hide behind — it's a cinematic masterpiece in its own right. Overall, a movie breakdown suggests it's a must-watch film for thrill-seekers! But, don't just take my word for it — doggedly seek this one out.