Jacob Elordi stars in Ridley Scott’s post-apocalyptic film The Dog Stars, set for release on August 28, 2026. The movie, based on Peter Heller’s 2012 novel, explores themes of survival and existential reflection through Elordi’s character, Hig, who navigates a world ravaged by pandemic and environmental collapse.
A Dystopian Vision Rooted in Real-World Crises
Set in a future where a deadly flu has decimated humanity, The Dog Stars portrays a world where only the immune survive. The film’s depiction of abandoned cities, resource scarcity, and societal breakdown mirrors real-world anxieties about pandemics and environmental degradation. Elordi, who received an Oscar nomination for Frankenstein, noted that the film’s themes resonate with the reality just behind us and just in front of us.
Elordi’s Reflections on Survival and Existential Longing
Elordi’s character, Hig, embodies a yearning for meaning in a fractured world. The actor described the film as frightening to think about
but argued that its portrayal of the difference between surviving and thriving
is vital. Everything is sweet for us—we’re able to walk around on the street, go to the shops, go to the park, have dinner with each other and we still go to bed and think ‘What else is there?’
he said, reflecting on the paradox of modern life.
The film’s canine star, German shepherd Jasper, plays a key role as Hig’s companion, adding emotional depth to the narrative. Elordi also highlighted the idea of redemption
in the story, noting that even in “the abyss,” nature’s regrowth offers hope. When a wildfire destroys an entire coast, inevitably the nature and the earth rebuilds and regrows,
he said, linking the film’s themes to real-world ecological resilience.
Mixed Critical Reception and Production Highlights
The film features a star-studded cast, including Josh Brolin, Margaret Qualley, and Allison Janney. Ridley Scott, who called it his “best movie” since The Martian, drew inspiration from both the 2008 financial crisis and the Covid-19 pandemic. The movie’s trailer, released by Yahoo, showcases Hig’s journey alongside Jasper, his fight against “survivors,” and a mysterious radio transmission that leads him to Cima (Qualley).
Release Date and Broader Cultural Context
With its August 28, 2026, theatrical release, The Dog Stars arrives amid ongoing global debates about climate change, pandemics, and societal resilience. The film’s exploration of existential questions—What am I missing?
and “What’s wrong?”—resonates with audiences navigating uncertainty. As Elordi reflected, There were a few moments I remember looking around [on set] and thinking it’s strange to be doing this make-believe, when the reality is just behind us and just in front of us.
The movie’s release also sparks discussion about the role of science fiction in addressing real-world crises. With its blend of apocalyptic imagery and human drama, The Dog Stars aims to provoke reflection on the fragility of civilization and the enduring human spirit.
