Will You Dare to Watch the Unseen Horror Film Coming to Amazon Prime?

In the realm of horror cinema, "Good Boy" has emerged as a standout film, drawing acclaim from both critics and audiences. With rave reviews highlighting its unique narrative and emotional depth, it promises to redefine the genre as we know it in 2025.

Last updated: 16 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

"Good Boy," directed by Ben Leonberg, has captivated viewers and critics alike, boasting a 90% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The film, which blends horror with poignant emotional storytelling, has sparked conversations about the recognition of animal actors in cinema, particularly with an open letter to the Oscars advocating for their inclusion in award categories. This buzz is not just about the film itself, but also about the broader implications for how we view animal performances in film.

Key takeaways

"Good Boy" has received a 90% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
The film features a unique narrative that combines horror and emotional depth.
Critics praise its visual style and ambitious storytelling.
There is a growing movement to recognise animal actors in major award categories.
The film will be available on Shudder and Amazon Prime Video on 21 November 2023.

Timeline: how we got here

Since its premiere, "Good Boy" has garnered considerable attention. The film was first showcased at various film festivals in early 2023, leading to widespread critical acclaim. Following its festival run, it was officially released in cinemas on 15 September 2023, with its streaming debut on Shudder and Amazon Prime Video scheduled for 21 November 2023. The push for recognising animal actors in awards began shortly after its release, as fans and critics alike rallied behind the remarkable performance of the canine lead, Indy.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

This week, the conversation surrounding "Good Boy" has intensified as fans and industry insiders advocate for Indy, the dog featured in the film, to receive an Oscar nomination. The open letter to the Academy has gained traction on social media, with many expressing their belief that animal performances deserve more recognition.

What was already established

Prior to this week, "Good Boy" was already making waves for its innovative approach to horror. Critics have highlighted its strong emotional core and visual storytelling as significant factors contributing to its success. The film's ability to blend horror elements with a heartwarming narrative has resonated with audiences, making it a standout in the genre.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The film's release on streaming platforms like Shudder and Amazon Prime Video means that UK audiences will have easy access to "Good Boy." As a horror film that transcends traditional genre boundaries, it invites a wider range of viewers, including those who may not typically engage with horror. This accessibility is likely to enhance discussions about film quality and the recognition of unique performances.

Businesses and jobs

The success of "Good Boy" may also have implications for independent filmmakers and the horror genre in the UK. As more viewers are drawn to unique narratives that blend genres, there may be increased opportunities for similar projects. This could lead to job creation within the film industry, particularly for those involved in independent productions.

Policy and regulation

The call for recognising animal actors could prompt discussions within the UK film industry regarding how animals are treated and acknowledged in filmmaking. If the Oscars consider this request, it may influence other award bodies and lead to changes in policies related to animal welfare in the entertainment industry.

Numbers that matter

90%: Current rating on Rotten Tomatoes, indicating strong critical approval.
4.5 stars: The rating given by Metro, highlighting its impact on critics.
15 September 2023: The date of the film's theatrical release in the UK.
21 November 2023: The upcoming streaming release on Shudder and Amazon Prime Video.
1: The number of prominent open letters directed to the Academy advocating for animal actors' recognition.

Definitions and jargon buster

Indie Horror: A horror film produced outside of the major studio system, often characterised by lower budgets and more creative freedom.
Certified Fresh: A designation from Rotten Tomatoes indicating that a film has received a high percentage of positive reviews from critics.
Award Categories: Various classifications under which films and performances can be recognised during award ceremonies, such as Best Actor or Best Picture.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, audiences can anticipate the film's release on streaming platforms, allowing for broader discussions and viewership. The ongoing social media advocacy for animal actors may also gain momentum as more viewers engage with the film.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As awards season approaches, the push for recognition of animal performances may lead to official discussions within the Academy and other bodies. If successful, this could set a precedent for future award seasons.

Signals to watch

Number of social media mentions regarding animal actors in awards.
Changes in the Academy's position on award categories related to animals.
Viewership numbers on streaming platforms post-release.

Practical guidance

Do

Watch "Good Boy" upon its release to experience its unique narrative.
Engage with discussions about recognising animal actors in cinema.
Support independent films that challenge genre conventions.

Don’t

Dismiss the importance of animal performances in films.
Assume that horror films cannot be emotionally impactful.
Ignore calls for change in award recognition systems.

Checklist

Have you watched "Good Boy"? If not, plan to do so when it becomes available.
Are you following discussions on social media regarding animal actors?
Have you considered supporting indie horror films in your viewing choices?
Are you aware of upcoming awards that may recognise animal performances?

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the push for recognising animal actors is gaining traction, it remains uncertain how the Academy will respond. Historical trends show that significant changes in award categories can take time and may be met with resistance. Furthermore, the broader acceptance of animal performances in award considerations could depend on the film industry's evolving views on animal welfare and rights.

Bottom line

The success of "Good Boy" not only highlights the potential for innovative storytelling in horror but also opens the door for important conversations about the recognition of animal actors in film. As audiences engage with this film, they may also contribute to a shift in how performances are valued across the industry.

FAQs

What is "Good Boy" about?

"Good Boy" is a horror film that blends emotional storytelling with chilling narratives, showcasing the journey of its canine lead amidst a haunting backdrop.

When will "Good Boy" be available for streaming?

The film will be available for streaming on Shudder and Amazon Prime Video starting 21 November 2023.

Why is there a push for recognising animal actors in awards?

The push stems from the belief that animal performances significantly contribute to films and deserve recognition similar to their human counterparts, as highlighted by the success of "Good Boy."