Uncut Diamonds

Some films may seem promising in theory and on paper but require additional depth to truly resonate on a lasting level. Unfortunately, despite the hype surrounding the 2025 horror film Goodboy, it ultimately failed to live up to expectations.

Cinematic Context

“Goodboy” is a project by Ben Loneberg. It tells the story of a man named Todd and his dog. After experiencing a medical crisis, Todd moves into a house once owned by his grandfather. Ignoring his sister’s advice, he believes that living in a remote, isolated setting might do him some good. However, the house carries an eerie history—one in which it is believed Todd’s grandfather and his dog both fell victim to something sinister.

From the moment Todd arrives, his loyal companion senses that something is terribly wrong. As the film progresses, we witness Todd’s nightmares intensify within the house, while his dog observes and reacts. As Letterboxd notes,

“As dark entities threaten his human companion, the brave pup must fight to protect the one he loves most.”

All Bark but No Bite

The horror elements are clear: shadows, the lethal nature of the haunting, and a palpable sense of dread. The film features the essential genre components—tension, high stakes, and escalating conflict. However, it ultimately falls short of creating a genuine emotional connection. Despite attempts to build empathy through montages showing the dog’s growth from an adorable puppy to a loyal protector, the emotional impact feels lacking.

Additionally, there isn’t enough background provided about Todd’s story for audiences to fully connect with him. Learning about his devastating diagnosis and his past choices helps establish some engagement, but it isn’t enough to fully draw viewers in.

Up in the Atmosphere

The film leans heavily on atmosphere. Much of the story is experienced from the perspective of the dog—through its senses, eyes, and ears, which is an interesting angle. However, this approach doesn’t generate enough energy to create a strong emotional pull. With limited dialogue, mostly between Todd and his dog, the film relies heavily on visual and sensory cues. While this perspective offers some visual innovation, it ultimately doesn’t provide enough momentum to sustain tension.

Goodboy: Nicely Niche

There’s a niche audience that may find enjoyment in this film, especially those who appreciate atmospheric horror and animal-centric stories. Unfortunately, it comes across as low energy and lacking the intensity needed for a compelling horror experience. The cinematography and visual effects are commendable—and the emotional expressions of the dog are well-executed—but these elements alone aren’t enough to elevate the film beyond its shortcomings.