Imagine a horror movie that not only terrifies audiences but also sets a groundbreaking standard for animal welfare in Hollywood. That’s exactly what Good Boy, directed by Ben Leonberg, has achieved as it barrels toward a $5 million box office milestone in just its second week. With $4.8 million already in the bag, the film isn’t just a hit—it’s a game-changer. And here’s where it gets even more impressive: PETA has just awarded the film its Good Boy, Great Filmmaking Award for its compassionate treatment of animals on set. But here’s where it gets controversial: while the movie’s canine star, Indy, faces heart-pounding horrors on screen, behind the scenes, the filmmakers went to extraordinary lengths to ensure his comfort and happiness. Could this be the future of ethical filmmaking? Let’s dive in.
In a press release, PETA praised Leonberg and his wife, Kari Fischer, for their dedication to Indy’s well-being. Instead of relying on a Hollywood animal supplier, the couple used their own beloved dog as the star, ensuring he was safe, comfortable, and stress-free throughout production. And this is the part most people miss: those scenes of Indy appearing ‘paralyzed with fear’? He was actually just staring at a treat or tennis ball off-camera. The ‘distressing’ yelps? Carefully edited recordings of him joyfully playing fetch. Even the blood was a dog-safe concoction of red food items. Action sequences were filmed in reverse or with techniques like speed ramping and camera shake to create tension without putting Indy at risk. Is this the level of care all animal actors deserve?
‘Indy’s comfort was our number one priority,’ Leonberg told PETA. ‘My wife and I were the only ones on set during filming, and we moved at Indy’s pace.’ This approach not only ensured Indy’s safety but also aligned with the film’s powerful message: to companion animals, their human family is everything, and it’s our duty to protect them. PETA’s Director of Animals in Film and Television, Lauren Thomasson, hailed the film as a ‘wonderful example of compassionate and ethical storytelling.’ But does Hollywood truly care, or is this just a rare exception?
The reality for many animal actors is starkly different. Dogs from Hollywood suppliers often endure harsh conditions, like those exposed in PETA’s investigation of Atlanta Film Animals. A blind and deaf dog named Frankie, suffering from heart failure, was kept in an unheated garage in near-freezing temperatures. Others were left in cold, barren kennels. By using their own pets, filmmakers like Leonberg and Fischer prove that ethical treatment isn’t just possible—it’s essential. Shouldn’t this be the industry standard?
In Good Boy, Indy’s story is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. A loyal dog moves to a rural home with his owner, Todd, only to uncover supernatural forces threatening their lives. As dark entities close in, Indy must summon all his courage to protect the one he loves most. It’s a tale of devotion, bravery, and the unbreakable bond between humans and their pets. But as we applaud this film, let’s ask ourselves: Are we doing enough to protect all animal actors?
Currently playing only in theaters, Good Boy isn’t just a movie—it’s a movement. It challenges us to rethink how animals are treated in entertainment and reminds us of the responsibility we have toward our furry companions. So, here’s the big question: Will Hollywood follow suit, or will this remain a rare beacon of ethical filmmaking? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take!
