Introduction to a New Horror Film
A horror image from the perspective of a heroic dog has premiered its official trailer. The film, which could be argued to be more suitably titled "Best boy", shows a caring dog displaying fear, concern, and care as it tries to protect its loved ones. The terrifying first look clip features aptly timed barks and whines from the dog, adding to the overall sense of tension and suspense.
The Film’s Plot and Background
The supernatural thriller, from IFC films by AMC Networks, now renamed Independent Film Company, follows a loyal dog as it moves into a new home with its owner. However, the dog soon discovers that supernatural powers are lurking in the shadows, protecting the house. The film aims to turn the traditional haunted house script on its head, offering a fresh perspective on the genre.
The Film’s Creation and Inspiration
The film was written by Ben Leonberg and Alex Cannon, with Leonberg also directing. The idea for the film was inspired by the common phenomenon of dogs staring at empty corners or spaces, leaving their owners to wonder what they are seeing. Leonberg wanted to explore this idea and use it as the core engine of the film. To achieve this, Leonberg and his wife, Kari Fischer, who also acted as a producer, adapted their own home to stand in for the film’s setting and spent three years recording their dog, Indy, to develop the production plan.
The Challenges of Working with Animals
The production of the film was not without its challenges. With Indy not being a trained animal actor, the production team had to be patient and flexible. The overall production took 400 days to complete, requiring a lot of time and effort to get the desired results. However, the end result was worth it, with the final product being described as an "incredibly realistic and urgent representation of a dog’s reaction to its house, taking on a life of its own".
The Film’s Reception and Release
The film has already received a warm reception, premiering at SXSW to a sold-out audience and earning the "Howl of Fame" award for best dog performance for Indy. The film has also been shown at the Overlook Film Festival in New Orleans and the Calgary Underground Film Festival. With its unique perspective and suspenseful plot, the film is sure to be a hit with horror fans and dog lovers alike. The film has been acquired by Shudder for release in the USA, Canada, Great Britain, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand.
