Good Boy: A Horror Film Seen Through the Eyes of a Dog

The horror genre receives a novel perspective in the film “Good Boy,” directed by Ben Leonberg. This unique cinematic endeavor unfolds entirely through the eyes of a dog, offering viewers an intense experience filtered through the heightened senses and protective instincts of a canine guardian. This unexpected narrative choice fundamentally shifts the established conventions of the horror film, providing a fresh and unsettling viewing experience.

The picture debuted in theaters on October 3, 2025, and has already garnered significant acclaim within the film community. Notably, it was recognized at the SXSW festival in 2025, where critics praised the originality of Leonberg’s directorial vision. Furthermore, Indi, the star of the film, received the prestigious “Howl of Fame” award for his exceptional canine performance.

Leonberg conceived the idea for this story after being inspired by a specific sequence in the 1982 classic “Poltergeist,” where a golden retriever is the first to detect the presence of ghosts. In an interview with Filmmaker Magazine, the director explained his rationale: “I constantly observed Indi, my dog, staring intently into empty corners or barking at seemingly nothing. It’s genuinely unsettling! Every dog owner understands that feeling.”

Leonberg concluded that a dog makes the perfect protagonist for a horror story because they perceive things invisible to humans, and their inherent loyalty provides a deeply emotional and moving core to the plot. This realization gave rise to “Good Boy,” a movie that skillfully blends genuine fear with the profound affection people hold for their pets.

Indi, a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, is not a professionally trained Hollywood actor but rather Leonberg’s own family pet. He and his wife, producer Kari Fisher, spent three years preparing Indi for the demanding shoot. The director shared with Filmmaker Magazine, “We only filmed a few shots daily, because Indi is a member of the family, not just an actor.” This commitment to Indi's well-being underscores the genuine connection central to the movie.

The narrative centers on Indi and his owner, Todd, who relocate to a house in the countryside. Once there, the dog senses unseen dangers and is driven to protect his human from the impending threat. The emotional heart of the movie lies in the powerful bond between Indi and Todd. Todd is ill, the house holds dark secrets, and Indi is the sole entity attempting to save him. The Hollywood Reporter observed, “The film succeeds because Indi is prepared to do anything for his owner.” This powerful motivation captivates even viewers who typically avoid horror films or are indifferent to dogs. This theme of unwavering fidelity and devotion forms the backbone of the storytelling.

While utilizing animals as central figures in thrillers is not entirely new, “Good Boy” elevates the genre. The dog is not merely a supporting character; all events are conveyed through his unique sensory perception. Director Leonberg aimed to translate the world as experienced by a creature whose senses of smell and hearing vastly surpass human capabilities, allowing him to register alarming signals long before they become apparent to people. This technique generates suspense rooted not in cheap visual scares, but in a mounting sense of dread originating from a loving and unconditionally loyal family member.