By: Minka Koskinen

October 7, 2025

This article is mostly spoiler free. There is one spoiler which appears only after the photo inserted in the article alongside a warning. If you would like to have a completely spoiler free experience do not read past the photo in the article. Thank you!

This past week I went to see “Good Boy” (2025), which is a horror movie that is told through the eyes of a dog, Indy, a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever. “Good Boy” was filmed over the course of a few years by Indy’s owner, Ben Leonberg, and the assistance of his wife, Kari Fischer. The reason for the length of time in filming the movie is because they did not want to overstress their star and dog, Indy. Filming for just 1 to 3 hours a day to ensure Indy’s comfortability, Ben explains in the end credits that Indy is not a professionally trained dog and was just his dog. This meant they had to be creative with how they got their shots, explaining Indy had no idea he was being filmed. For those going to see the movie, the end credit scene is a must and worth it to wait till the end of the credits.

The plot itself explores Indy and how his owner Todd is dealing with health complications. Wanting to get away, Todd takes his loyal dog Indy to his late grandfather’s secluded home. Todd’s sister Vera is concerned not only due to the state of Todd’s health but of fears the house may be haunted.

Over the course of the movie we see through Indy’s eyes what horrors hold in the house. Having the movie be from the lens of a dog has breathed a much-needed refreshment into the genre of horror. While the plot itself isn’t overly new, we have a haunted house, possible monstrous figures, and a weird neighbor. Having it through Indy gives everything an elevated sense of terror.

As a dog owner myself I felt some real tension, concern, and emotion with Indy. For a dog that doesn’t realize he is in a movie, he sure does deserve an Oscar. I was rooting for Indy, I was worried about Indy, and I was worried for him. While I won’t get into any spoilers in this review I think this indie film will leave the audience’s tails wagging and howling for more.

The movie does have a slow burn. For me it worked perfectly, setting up the tone and giving me a false sense of security in the beginning. Not all audiences may enjoy this type of start, but I beg you give it a chance.

Now for the question on everyone’s mind: Does the dog die?

SPOILER PHOTO BELOW:

No, Indy survives the film!