Elordi Leads Ridley Scott’s Tender Postapocalyptic Flight in The Dog Stars

Deadline’s review praises Jacob Elordi’s Hig as the emotional center of Ridley Scott’s The Dog Stars, a slower, character-driven postapocalyptic thriller based on Peter Heller’s novel. Set in a virus-ravaged 2035 Colorado, the film pairs Hig with Bangley (Josh Brolin) and later Pop and Cima (Guy Pearce, Margaret Qualley) as they navigate danger and search for hope, all anchored by lush cinematography and a fitting score. The pace leans into humanity over spectacle, with strong turns from the supporting cast and a few standout action moments, culminating in a journey toward Grand Junction that reveals the film’s unusual, contemplative payoff.