A new supernatural thriller, Good Boy, has officially arrived on the streaming platform Hulu. The film, directed by Ben Leon and co-written with Alex Cannon, utilizes a unique perspective to explore the classic horror trope of pets sensing the paranormal.
According to a report from polygon.com, the film is framed entirely from the viewpoint of Indy, a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever. The production utilized low-angle shots to keep Indy in frame, allowing viewers to experience the horror through the dog's eyes.
Leonberg spent three years filming the project, working closely with the dog that plays the lead character. The narrative follows Indy and his owner, Todd, as they move from New York City to a secluded rural home.
A perspective of dread
The setting involves a house once owned by Todd's grandfather, who died under mysterious circumstances. The property also holds the mystery of Bandit, a golden retriever that went missing years ago.
Polygon reports that the film's visual style keeps the human characters, such as Todd, at a distance. Viewers primarily see parts of the owner's hands and hear his voice, mimicking how a dog perceives a human.
This perspective creates a visceral sense of fear because the protagonist cannot communicate with humans. When Indy encounters dark presences or suffers attacks, the audience experiences a heightened sense of vulnerability.
Unlike traditional horror protagonists who may make morally dubious decisions, the film's lead is driven by instinct and loyalty. Polygon notes that Indy is 'just a good boy doing his utmost in an impossibly scary situation where his owner is in deep peril.'
Leonberg uses low-intensity light sources and sound design to build tension. The film relies on the dog's acute sense of sound to create a disorienting atmosphere for the audience.
