The Dog Stars (film)
Upcoming film by Ridley Scott
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The Dog Stars is an upcoming post-apocalyptic science fiction film directed by Ridley Scott and written by Mark L. Smith, based on the 2012 novel by Peter Heller. It stars Jacob Elordi, Josh Brolin, Margaret Qualley, Allison Janney, and Guy Pearce.
- Ridley Scott
- Michael Pruss
- Mark L. Smith
- Cliff Roberts
| The Dog Stars | |
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Teaser poster | |
| Directed by | Ridley Scott |
| Screenplay by | Mark L. Smith[1] |
| Based on | |
| Produced by |
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| Starring | |
| Cinematography | Erik Messerschmidt |
| Edited by |
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| Music by | Harry Gregson-Williams |
Production companies | |
| Distributed by | 20th Century Studios |
Release date |
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| Countries |
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| Language | English |
| Budget | $110 million[2] |
The film is scheduled to be released in the United States by 20th Century Studios on August 28, 2026.
Premise
Set after a devastating flu pandemic that has almost eradicated humanity, the film centers on Hig, a former civilian pilot, and Bangley, a hardened ex-Marine as they confront outside threats and hold onto the possibility of a better life beyond where they currently live.[3]
Cast
- Jacob Elordi as Hig, a civilian pilot living with his dog
- Josh Brolin as Bangley, an aloof, gun-toting ex-Marine and Hig's companion
- Margaret Qualley as Cima, a young medic and Hig's love interest
- Allison Janney
- Guy Pearce as Pops, a former Navy SEAL and Cima's father
- Benedict Wong
Production
Development

In November 2024, Ridley Scott stated that after shooting his planned Bee Gees biopic, he wanted to direct a then-unrevealed sci-fi film, adding that "it's already written".[4] This project was later revealed to be based on the 2012 novel The Dog Stars by Peter Heller, adapted by Mark L. Smith and Christopher Wilkinson.[5] By this time, it was set to be Scott's next film, with filming set to begin in spring 2025.[6][7]
Casting
In November 2024, it was announced that Paul Mescal was in advanced negotiations to star in the film.[6][8] However, due to scheduling conflicts, it was later reported in January 2025 that Jacob Elordi was in early negotiations to replace Mescal.[9] In February, Margaret Qualley, Josh Brolin, and Guy Pearce were in final negotiations to join the cast.[10] In early May 2025, Benedict Wong joined the cast.[11]
Filming

Principal photography began in Bordano in April 2025.[12][13][14] From May 12 to 16, filming took place in Cansiglio, a plateau in the Alpine foothills.[15][16][17][18] Later that month, filming took place in Avezzano.[19] In June, production moved to Rome, where filming took place at Cinecittà Studios and in Casal Bernocchi and the EUR.[20][21][22] Production concluded in late June 2025 after one-month filming in the natural landscape of Bosco Macchia Grande in Manziana,[23] near Rome.[24] Scenes for the film were also shot at Pinewood Studios.[25]