The horror film that proved too frightening for even the most dedicated genre enthusiasts has finally arrived on a major streaming platform. Good Boy, the supernatural chiller that reduced cinema audiences to tears, is now available to watch on Shudder via Amazon Prime Video.
Directed by Ben Leonberg, the film first generated significant buzz after its premiere at the SXSW Festival. Its unique premise, told from the perspective of a dog, sets it apart in a crowded genre.
What Makes Good Boy So Terrifying?
The story follows Indy, a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever who is the real-life pet of director Leonberg and his wife, producer Kari Fischer. Indy and his owner, Todd (Shane Jensen), move to a remote home belonging to Todd's grandfather (Larry Fessenden) following a medical emergency.
Despite warnings from Todd's sister, Vera (Arielle Friedman), about the property being haunted, sinister events quickly begin to unfold. The film masterfully uses the concept that dogs can perceive entities beyond human comprehension, making Indy the perfect conduit for building unbearable tension.
Critical Acclaim and Audience Reaction
Good Boy has achieved a certified fresh 90% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, a rare feat for a horror film. The critics' consensus praises it as a visually striking, emotionally devastating horror film that eschews genre conventions.
Metro.co.uk awarded the film 4.5 stars, calling it one of the best horror films you will see in 2025. Observer noted that the picture is both hair-raising and heartbreaking, while Empire celebrated its brilliantly executed novelty of its canine conceit.
The Guardian highlighted director Ben Leonberg's craft, suggesting he possesses a talent that many other horror filmmakers lack, successfully pulling off a lofty narrative and technical challenge.
Beyond the Scares: A Campaign for Recognition
The film's success has sparked a real-world campaign. Following its release, IFC directed an open letter to the Academy, signed by Indy himself, petitioning for animal actors to be considered for Oscars in the Best Actor category.
While the Academy has yet to respond, fans have taken to social media in droves, asserting that Indy's performance is indeed Oscar-worthy. This adds a fascinating postscript to a film that is as thought-provoking as it is terrifying.
Good Boy is not just a series of scares; it's an emotional journey exploring the unwavering devotion of a dog to its owner, even in the face of neglect brought on by debilitating health issues and creeping madness. Good Boy is streaming now on Amazon Prime Video.
