The Dog Stars is a quieter and more emotional post-apocalyptic movie than I expected. Instead of focusing only on violence and survival, the story follows Hig (Jacob Elordi), a pilot living in an isolated Colorado airfield after a devastating pandemic. He shares the compound with the hardened Bangley (Josh Brolin) and his loyal dog, Jasper, while still struggling with everything he has lost.
For me, the strongest part of the movie was Hig’s relationship with Jasper. Their bond gives the story warmth and makes Hig feel much more vulnerable. Elordi is also convincing in the quieter moments, while Brolin brings a tougher energy that balances him well. The cinematography is beautiful, especially the landscapes and flying scenes, and Ridley Scott makes the empty world feel both peaceful and unsettling.
The movie does become a little predictable once Hig begins searching for other survivors, and I wanted a few of the supporting characters to have more development. Still, I liked that The Dog Stars is ultimately more interested in grief, companionship, and finding a reason to keep going than in constant action. It is flawed, but its emotional moments and the relationship with Jasper stayed with me the most.
