Good Boy Horror Film: Dog's POV Interview with Indy and Director Ben Leonberg (2025)

Imagine a horror movie where the hero isn't a tough human survivor, but a loyal dog fighting supernatural threats—now that's a twist that could change how you view the genre forever! But here's where it gets controversial: In a world where horror films often sacrifice animals for cheap scares, 'Good Boy' dares to put a pup at the center, sparking debates about ethics and storytelling. And this is the part most people miss: Experiencing terror from a canine's perspective isn't just novel; it blends creature features with home invasion thrills in a way that's refreshingly original.

Horror enthusiasts know the drill—countless films have offed family pets in brutal, unnecessary ways, leaving viewers cringing and questioning the filmmakers' choices. Think of classics like 'The Omen' or even modern hits where dogs meet grisly ends just to ramp up the tension. It's a trope that's become so commonplace that it almost feels lazy. Yet, 'Good Boy' flips the script entirely. This indie gem not only casts a dog as the protagonist but lets us see the chilling story unfold through his eyes. For beginners diving into horror, a POV (point of view) film means you're immersed in the action as if you're the character—here, it's like being inside the mind of a brave canine, heightening the suspense without relying on jump scares alone. The result? A breath of fresh air that mixes eerie creatures with the dread of an invasion, offering a viewing experience that's as unique as it is unsettling.

In 'Good Boy,' a devoted Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever named Indy relocates to a countryside family home with his owner, only to uncover eerie supernatural presences hiding in the darkness. As menacing forces endanger his beloved human, this courageous pooch embarks on a mission to safeguard the one he cherishes most. It's a tale of loyalty and peril that tugs at the heartstrings while delivering genuine chills.

Recently, we had the pleasure of chatting with the film's star, Indy—a charming Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever breed known for their intelligence and energy—and the director, Ben Leonberg. During our conversation, Indy made a quick cameo, wagging his tail and stealing the show, while Ben shared the backstory of how 'Good Boy' came to be. We delved deep into Indy's remarkable demeanor; despite lacking any professional acting training, he's a model of good behavior, responding naturally to commands and bringing authenticity to every scene. We uncovered who handled Indy's daring stunts, what tasty treats rewarded his stellar performances, and whether the viral chant of 'If the dog dies, we riot' from fans gave the crew any pause. For those aspiring to make films, Ben opened up about the challenges of shooting in low-light conditions and his techniques for building spine-tingling atmospheres in shadowy settings—think using practical effects and clever lighting to evoke dread without over-relying on CGI.

We also explored how the film's momentum skyrocketed after its trailer exploded online, drawing in crowds eager for this fresh take on horror. Clocking in at just 72 minutes, 'Good Boy' is a taut thriller that masterfully builds suspense from that one-of-a-kind canine viewpoint. Visually stunning with its atmospheric lighting, it's one of the standout indie horrors of the year, and its lead actor? Absolutely irresistible. Indy, with no formal training, proves to be a natural talent, his devotion shining brightly even in moments of rejection, making him a star you can't help but root for.

But let's stir the pot a bit: Is putting a real dog in a horror film ethical, or does it risk exploiting animals for entertainment? Some argue it's a step forward in representation, giving pets the hero's role they deserve, while others worry about the potential stress on the animal during filming. What do you think—does this approach redeem the genre's past sins, or is it just another way to sensationalize animal peril? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Have you caught Ben Leonberg's 'Good Boy' yet? I can't recommend it enough—it's a must-watch for horror fans and dog lovers alike. And tell us, what other animals would you want to follow through a spine-chilling ordeal? Drop your ideas in the comments and let's discuss!