Canine Star 'Good Boy' Reaps Awards and Critical Acclaim in Horror Movie Success Story
The horror movie 'Good Boy', directed by Ben Leonberg, is a box office hit, surpassing $5 million in its second week of release. With a total of $4.8 million in U.S. box office sales, the film's success is celebrated by IFC, and it has just received a prestigious award from PETA.
PETA's press release highlights the film's commitment to animal welfare, stating, 'On screen, the canine protagonist faces a series of terrifying events. However, behind the scenes, the filmmakers, Ben Leonberg and Kari Fischer, went to great lengths to ensure the safety and well-being of their star, a real dog named Indy, who was treated with the utmost care and respect.'
The award, named the 'Good Boy, Great Filmmaking Award', acknowledges the exceptional efforts of the Leonbergs in creating a compassionate and ethical environment for their canine star.
In an interview with PETA, Leonberg shared their dedication to Indy's comfort, explaining, 'We prioritized Indy's comfort throughout the production. That's why we were the only people on set, moving at his pace.'
To achieve the film's intense scenes, the team employed creative techniques. For instance, shots of Indy 'paralyzed with fear' were actually taken when he was calmly staring at a treat or tennis ball off-camera. The sounds of distress were carefully recorded during Indy's joyful playtime, and action sequences were filmed in reverse, ensuring a smooth playback.
The film's 'blood' was a clever blend of dog-safe red foods, showcasing the team's commitment to animal-friendly practices.
PETA's Director of Animals in Film and Television, Lauren Thomasson, praised the film's responsible approach, saying, 'Good Boy's responsible filmmaking aligns with its powerful message: companion animals consider their human family their everything, and we must pay attention to their needs.'
This success story highlights the importance of ethical treatment of animals in Hollywood. PETA's investigation into Atlanta Film Animals revealed the harsh conditions some dogs endure, including a 13-year-old dog named Frankie, who was kept in an unheated garage in freezing temperatures, despite his health issues. This contrasts sharply with the Leonbergs' dedication to Indy's well-being.
'Good Boy' is currently playing exclusively in theaters, captivating audiences with its unique blend of horror and animal welfare.
The film's plot revolves around a loyal dog, Indy, who moves with his owner, Todd, to a rural family home, only to uncover supernatural forces lurking in the shadows. As dark entities threaten his human companion, Indy must summon his courage to protect the one he loves most.
With its critical acclaim and awards, 'Good Boy' is a testament to the power of responsible filmmaking and the impact it can have on both audiences and animal welfare.
