The Dog Stars

Ridley Scott reminds us all that in the quietest moments, he achieves his most terrifying work.

The critically acclaimed director that brought us Alien, Gladiator and Blade Runner has now resurfaced to deliver his latest feature, The Dog Stars. A post-apocalyptic story that focuses on the animalistic instincts of humans whilst also delivering a truly lovely vibe. For the most part, it’s a peaceful exploration of an unknown world, introducing us to the circumstances forced upon different groups along the way. Some wholesome, some horrific.

What makes the intensity so effective is the variety of forms it comes in. Each interaction provides a completely unique dynamic and gives us new information on what we should expect. A brilliant example of this is when Josh Brolin’s character encounters a feral gang that have fallen back into a barbaric, primitive lifestyle. The scene builds slowly and echoes skills from his earlier movies; In a way, I see this as an exhibition of his filmmaking so far.

A common trope in modern movies is the idea that we build to the action, that it’s always the definitive climax. Here, however, that isn’t the case. The intensity is introduced when it’s necessary, not when it’s expected, something that adds to the suspense. Equally, I felt the movie knew when it was time to end. Whilst an extended cut would be enticing, those scenes would be more beneficial in the second third, as the ending comes across very naturally, leaving me wanting more in the best possible way.

Ultimately, this won’t be a movie we talk about in years to come, but instead, one of those hidden gems that will be rediscovered and have a cult following. The world is left with so much flexibility and the idea of that leaves such a positive impact in my mind.