That New, Viral Horror Movie That Has Us All Worried About Whether The Dog Dies Just Got Some Good News

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For several weeks now, enthusiasts of upcoming horror movies have been abuzz over “Good Boy“, the independent horror film told from a canine’s perspective, with one pressing question echoing in discussions about 2025 releases: “Will the dog survive?” At long last, we have a response that will bring smiles to the faces of dog enthusiasts everywhere, and it’s a positive one.

According to a report from IndieWire, the movie directed by Ben Leonberg has been gaining popularity since its trailer was released earlier this month. The trailer garnered over a million views in just four days and sparked a 2,000% increase in Google searches about whether the dog in “Good Boy” dies. The film, which screened at SXSW earlier this year, features Leonberg’s own Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, Indy, and various sources confirm that Indy survives the story without any harm.

The production company responsible for it, IFC, was impressed by the reception and has chosen to broaden the film’s release, shifting its initial limited run on October 3 to a wider theatrical distribution. The brief, 72-minute movie titled “Good Boy” is said to be concise, impactful, and distinctive in its viewpoint.

As a movie enthusiast, I found myself drawn into a tale where I, Indy, am transitioning to a fresh abode under the care of my owner. However, an unsettling feeling pervades this home; there seems to be a malevolent spirit lurking in its shadows. The narrative twists the conventional horror trope in an intriguing manner: while humans remain oblivious to the spectral menace, I, their trusty companion, can sense it. The narrative unfolds as a race against time – will I be able to shield my human family from this supernatural threat before it’s too late?

At SXSW, viewers who watched the premiere enthusiastically posted online that the main dog character lives on, immediately alleviating the primary concern for prospective audiences. This tidbit might just persuade hesitant dog enthusiasts to become eager ticket purchasers.

The confirmation about Indy’s outcome is not the sole reason for the growing anticipation. In fact, initial reviews have been exceptionally positive, with the movie “Good Boy” boasting a 95% rating on Rotten Tomatoes from its initial critical response. Critics are particularly taken with the film’s innovative viewpoint and emotional core, suggesting that it could offer a unique blend of horror and heart. It’s worth noting that “Good Boy” is not your typical talking-dog movie, and Indy certainly won’t be added to the list of cinematic history’s most vicious pets. As suggested by its title, “Good Boy” appears to be captivating audiences based on its trailer and early hype.

The timing for IFC couldn’t be more auspicious. After achieving significant success with some of the most chilling horror films in recent years, such as “Late Night with the Devil” and last year’s unrated “In a Violent Nature,” it seems that the company is on track for another genre triumph, this time with wider audience appeal due to its PG-13 rating. What makes this intriguing is how “Good Boy” explores a fear that resonates universally-the dread of something catastrophic befalling our beloved pets.

The worry about Indy’s survival was so significant that it essentially became a central part of the film’s promotion, with online audiences eagerly seeking answers. By tackling this issue early on (without revealing other plot points), the filmmakers potentially made the movie appealing to both hardcore horror fans and animal lovers.

The movie titled “Good Boy” will be released in cinemas on October 3, and later becomes available for streaming for those who have a Shudder subscription.

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2025-08-24 20:08