Key facts
- Jacob Elordi stars as Hig, a former mechanic and pilot in the post-apocalyptic film 'The Dog Stars.'
- The film explores themes of pandemic, environmental destruction, and the human condition.
- Elordi relates to his character's existential questioning about life's contentment.
- Co-star Guy Pearce emphasizes appreciating the world people take for granted.
- Director Ridley Scott drew inspiration from the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2008 financial crisis.
Jacob Elordi, who recently received an Oscar nomination for 'Frankenstein,' stars as Hig, a former mechanic and pilot in Sir Ridley Scott's post-apocalyptic thriller 'The Dog Stars.' The film, based on Peter Heller's 2012 novel, depicts a world ravaged by a devastating pandemic and environmental destruction, where survivors search for meaning and resources.
Elordi told the BBC that the film portrays 'the human condition,' with characters living in the apocalypse but still 'looking for something else and hoping for something else.' He reflected on the strangeness of filming during a time that felt close to reality, stating, '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.' He also connected with his character's struggle for contentment, noting that even in comfortable circumstances, people often question 'What am I missing?'
Co-star Guy Pearce, who plays Pops, a survivor Hig encounters, echoed the sentiment of appreciating what is often taken for granted. He highlighted the pertinence of the film in showing 'this world we take for granted,' such as having access to food and family, and acknowledged his own privilege.
The film's environmental themes resonate with both Pearce and Elordi, who were raised in Australia and have experienced natural disasters like bushfires. Pearce noted the increasing effects of climate change globally, calling it 'pretty terrifying.' Elordi, however, found a 'note of hope' in the film's depiction of nature's regrowth, with lush greenery and flowers emerging from decay, drawing parallels to how nature rebuilds after wildfires.
Sir Ridley Scott stated that the film was inspired by both the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2008 global financial crisis, creating a 'great combination of chaos.' He also drew from his own experiences as a 'war baby' during World War II to inform the apocalyptic setting.
Early reviews for 'The Dog Stars' have been mixed. The Guardian gave it three stars, calling it 'limp and lethargic,' while Empire awarded two stars, suggesting it 'doesn't seem entirely convinced of its own answers.' Tim Robey at The Telegraph also gave it three stars, describing the action sequences as 'more nonsensical than scary.' The film is set for release in UK cinemas on August 28.