The Dog Stars Movie Review

This movie is one of my favorites for the year. I’ve said that several times this year already, yes, but I consider that a good thing. Here’s another great film you have to see and with all the good films out already, it will be hard to narrow it down to a top ten. ​
I’m getting dizzy just thinking about what a difficult task that will be. This could hit my top ten at this point, but we’ll see. There’s still a lot of 2026 left. Regardless, see this. It’s a great time.

It’s set in a post-apocalyptic, dystopian world which the beginning absolutely sets you up for, exciting you from the first frame. A pandemic happened, life has changed and off we went. Sound design is remarkable, and it helps with the stunning visuals that grab you and hold you in a forward position. You’re leaning forward throughout to get closer to the screen. What’s next?! I couldn’t move so if you’re like me and you get sucked in by a good drama; this was made for you. As far as action goes, there’s not a lot of that.

Not that I don’t like good action films, it’s just that you don’t get that here. There are some scenes where Hig (Jacob Elordi) and Bangley (Josh Brolin), best of friends helping each other and it’s easy to root for them, who have to defend their territory, where you see some “combat” but there’s not much beyond that. There are some not so nice people out to get whatever they can take from anyone. They are shaved-headed, tattooed, vicious antagonists called “The Reapers.” They have to look out for those types. Your eyes widen when they come around, even though they do copy a certain blueprint. Bangley has some fun messing with them, and he gets the job done… alone.

Hig is the main character in the film. He has a dog named Jasper whom he loves very much. This dog is the replacement for everything else that’s missing in his life. Something happens to Jasper and Hig must fly away, taking us to where the buffalo roam. Hig runs across some people, a father and daughter living on their ranch, played by Guy Pearce and Margaret Qualley. This is where the movie gets a tad dry and tedious. Shame because one thing you didn’t want was typical and routine. Cutting out the repetitive scenes would have been nice. There are some truly strange and unusual things about to happen, so it isn’t completely business as usual, thank goodness. 

Scenes involving Allison Janney’s character Darlene, who works in an airport in Grand Junction, Colorado, a place where Hig was hoping to find sanctuary, are extremely odd. That may be the case but it’s also where the film captures me. When he gets to Grand Junction, you may get “The Shining” vibes as I did. It doesn’t fit… but that’s why I liked the movie more. I know, I don’t make sense, but Darlene will scare you. She’s creepy, in a compelling but quirky way. You’ll notice a comparison to “Mad Max,” and remember, there are no rules to being an audience member, just have fun with it! And have fun looking at Jacob Elordi and Margaret Qualley. They’re beautiful.

I will have to say it’s about 20-30 minutes too long. The style and overall tone aren’t Scott’s best, but he’s there. You feel him. He’s a great storyteller getting down to some great storytelling. The cast is good, so don’t listen to people if they’re telling you otherwise and saying not to see this at the theater. It’s a big screen must-see.