Have you ever watched your pet and wondered what they perceive? How do they interpret our actions or the world around them? When they fixate on an empty space or a shadowy corner, what are they sensing that escapes our human understanding? This fascinating premise is explored in Good Boy, where we meet Indy, the most adorable ghost hunter one could imagine. His mission is to safeguard his owner, Todd (Shane Jensen), from otherworldly forces that only he can perceive.
With a nod to Skinamarink and Flow, Good Boy is a delightful foray into the horror genre featuring a charming lead. The film swiftly establishes its setting and, despite leaning on genre clichés from time to time, the concept itself keeps viewers engaged. Surprisingly emotional, thanks to Indy’s presence, the film does suffer slightly from underdeveloped human characters, making the climax feel a tad less impactful.
A Unique Spin on Horror Film Tropes
Indy’s Daring Adventures
Good Boy chronicles Todd’s return to a quaint yet eerie family home that has been passed down through generations. Seeking refuge from the hustle and bustle of city life after a health scare, he finds himself increasingly isolated. His sister, Vera (Arielle Friedman), shows genuine concern, but Todd brushes off her anxiety, often leaving her to talk to himself while he takes a break outside.
Upon arriving at the house, the atmosphere settles, and Todd gets to work while Indy curiously roams. However, the peace is short-lived. Indy starts engaging in classic dog behaviors—menacingly staring into shadows, evading certain rooms, and barking at invisible dangers. This phenomenon resonates with pet owners, delivering a chilling sense of familiarity in the film.
The film benefits significantly from Indy’s performance; he might just be one of the best canine actors to grace the screen. His expressive communication—gentle whimpers of fear or sharp barks signaling impending danger—creates a visceral experience. We even glimpse Indy’s dreams, heightening the immersive quality of seeing events unfold through his senses, such as sight and smell, which adds depth to the storytelling.
Good Boy‘s commitment to its premise is commendable, culminating in an intense action-packed finale that keeps the adrenaline flowing.
While Good Boy relies on conventional jump scares to generate fear, it truly shines when creating an eerie and atmospheric environment rather than sticking solely to typical haunted house elements. It’s debatable whether the film could maintain this tension over a longer runtime. However, its brevity and perspective make Todd somewhat of a blank slate, diminishing emotional investment in his journey.
Ultimately, it’s Indy’s reactions to the unfolding chaos that resonate the most. This focus may highlight the premise’s limitations—instead of creating empathy for Todd, viewers connect more with what Indy perceives. Regardless, the film’s dedication to its unique approach remains impressive, especially during the racing finale that leaves audiences on the edge of their seats.
Even with its flaws, Good Boy emerges as a captivating film that feels both fresh and familiar. It might sound odd to describe a horror movie as soothing, but its blend of ghoulish surprises and heartfelt moments makes for a worthwhile experience. When it finds its way to screens, it promises to be the kind of film you’d find on Shudder, intriguing viewers with its imaginative concept while delivering unexpected joy.
Good Boy premiered at the 2025 SXSW Film & TV Festival.